Three Tips for Better Sleep
We’ve all heard the general tips for getting better sleep: Keep a regular sleep schedule, don’t drink or eat anything too heavy right before bed, keep a clean bedroom, don’t drink caffeine or smoke before bed, take a warm bath or shower before bed if you can’t sleep, and so on.
These things are a great start, and I recommend all of them. However, there are still a few other things you may not have thought about that can not only help you get a more restful night’s sleep, but also a more beautifying night’s sleep.
Are you familiar with the phrase, “Dress for the job you want”? Well, I’d like to amend that phrase to say, “Dress for the night’s sleep you want.”
Here are three bedtime tips that, when implemented with your existing routine, can make every night (and morning) even better.
1. Keep Light Exposure to a Minimum
While light exposure during the day is beneficial to your circadian rhythm, light exposure at night has the opposite effect.
Exposure to light around and at bedtime can trick your brain into thinking it is still daytime. This causes a reduction in the hormones that help you relax and get good REM sleep, like melatonin.
The worst light for bedtime is blue light, which comes from electronic devices cell phones, computers, and televisions. To reduce the negative effects of all sources of light, stop watching TV and turn off any bright lights in your home at least two hours before heading to bed.
Not able to block all the light out of your bedroom? Try a sleepmask like this one:
2. Wear the Right Pajamas
Another important element in getting a good night’s sleep is what you wear to bed. Picking the right pajamas to help support comfortable and restful sleep can mean the difference between tossing and turning through the night and getting deep, uninterrupted sleep. Follow these tips to pick the right pajamas for you:
Focus on fabric
You should always choose sleepwear that feels great when you put it on. If you don’t like the feeling of certain materials, then you won’t get the best sleep when you’re wearing them to bed. Picking the right fabrics can help regulate your body temperature during the night, promoting a better slumber. Consider choosing from some of the following fabrics:
Cotton
All-natural, lightweight, and soft to the touch, cotton is also known for its breathability. This allows for better air circulation and reduces the chances of skin irritation. That said, cotton isn’t as insulating as other materials – so you may get cold if you’re in a colder climate and don’t have enough blankets. If you’re prone to night sweats, you may also want to choose a more moisture-wicking material that will keep you dry through the night.
Try these styles:
Silk
Aside from being beautiful and luxuriously soft, silk has amazing thermoregulating properties. This means silk can keep you warm when you’re feeling cold and cool when you’re feeling warm. Do keep in mind – real silk can be more expensive than other fabrics, and it is more difficult to clean. It usually requires dry cleaning only.
Try these styles:
Flannel
During the fall and winter months, a soft flannel pajama set or separates can really do the trick. It’s cozy and comfortable, provides warmth and breathability, which helps keep you warm and toasty without overheating.
Try these styles:
Moisture-wicking
If you’re a hot sleeper or tend to get night sweats, moisture-wicking sleepwear may be the best choice for you. Moisture-wicking materials draw water away from the skin, helping your body to regulate its own temperature.
Try these styles:
Wool and fleece
If you’re a cold sleeper or are in a very cold climate, wool or fleece can help keep you warm through the night. However, because these fabrics are so warm, they can cause overheating.
Try these styles:
Consider the fit and style
Just like fabric, fit and style also matter when you’re choosing the right pajamas for you. Make sure you’re choosing a fit that isn’t too binding that it causes discomfort or too loose that it slips off of you while you sleep. Some people prefer the freeness of nightgowns, while others prefer pajama pant sets or short sets. Choose your personal preference. Also, consider whether different elements like buttons, snaps, and tags irritate you during the night.
3. Try a Sleep Bra
If you have larger breasts, sleeping without a bra may be uncomfortable and even painful. And if you have smaller breasts, you still might prefer the extra coverage and support a bra can provide. There are several bras on the market that are great for sleeping and lounging.
Here are a few to consider:
Ready to shop? Browse all HerRoom’s sleepwear styles here!
Find a better fit,
Tomima
