Do you have any new year’s resolutions? If so, do any of them involve getting more sleep? If not, consider adding sleeping more to your list of resolutions or goals.</span></span></span></span>
Many of us lead busy lives as career-focused individuals, students</span>, parents, members of our communities, or a combination of these. As such, we may forget or deny that it is literally of vital importance to get enough sleep. A lack of sleep</span> over time can lead to dangerous consequences in the form of physical and behavioral health issues, or increased probability for injuries and accidents</span>. </span>
On the bright side, improving your sleeping habits doesn’t have to be a difficult change to make. Here are four tips for getting more, and better, sleep this year:</span></span></span></span>
Make a sleep schedule. Identify a time period for sleeping that works best for your lifestyle, and make an effort to maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Establish a bedtime routine that will help you to relax (hint: put down your phone) and prepare for a restorative night’s rest.</span>
Use your bedroom primarily for sleeping. While you may be comfortable watching TV, working, studying, or surfing the internet in your bedroom, these habits done repeatedly can distract you from using your bedroom for its original purpose: to rest.</span>
Minimize bright lights and gadget use before bed. Bright lights and the light emitted from electronic device screens can send a signal to the brain to be more alert, which inhibits relaxation.</span>
Avoid caffeine at least a few hours before bed. It’s suggested to stop consuming anything with caffeine at least six hours before bed. Since it is a stimulant, it can interfere with one’s ability to fall asleep.</span>
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If you believe you may have a sleep disorder, make an appointment with a doctor to assess your sleep habits, needs, and possible treatments. </span></span></span></span>
Getting enough sleep will help you feel more energized, focused, and healthier overall</span>. May your dreams, and your 2018, be sweet.</span></span></span>
