Steps to Getting a Better Night’s Sleep

Have you had trouble sleeping lately? Are you frustrated at your inability to get a good night’s sleep or that you’re not waking up feeling refreshed? If so, you’re not alone. The American Sleep Foundation reports that about 2/3 of Americans can’t get sleep that leaves them feeling refreshed when they wake up in the morning. However, getting a good night’s sleep has been linked to memory boosts, living longer, and other positive benefits, so it’s important to take steps to get a good night’s rest. It’s also helpful to note what factors impact your ability to fall asleep and stay in a deep sleep. Some of them are easy fixes, such as changing out a mattress or pillow, while people who have a more difficult time falling asleep may even want to switching to a different kind of bed, such as adjustible beds.
What Factors Can Influence My Trouble Sleeping?
Chronic Pain
The National Sleep Foundation states that about 15% of the population has chronic pain from sleeping in the wrong position. Having back or neck pain, TMJ, or headaches can prevent you from falling asleep or getting a full night’s sleep, since you’re constantly trying to move or shift into different positions to avoid putting stress on the affected body part. Taking pain medication can also sometimes have unwanted side effects that can affect how you fall asleep.
The Wrong Pillow or Mattress
Some people need a specific mattress hardness or thickness to be comfortable sleeping. People with back problems may want a softer mattress, while others prefer more support with a harder mattress. You may also require a bigger bed, like a queen bed. Additionally, other people may prefer a softer pillow versus a hard pillow to support their neck. What you sleep on is crucial to your comfort and ability to fall asleep.
What Steps Can I Take to Get a Better Night’s Sleep?
Eating right and working out can help you get a better night’s sleep. Additionally, eating earlier in the evening and not snacking right before bed can assist with falling asleep, since your body can focus on sleeping, instead of digesting. Exercise will exert more effort from your body and make you more tired, making it easier to fall asleep at night.
Adjustable beds are another great option if you’re looking to try and get a better night’s sleep. There’s different kinds of adjustible beds, such as memory foam beds. Some also include heat or massage features. Like any bed, there are different sizes of adjustible beds, so you can find one that fits your needs. Adjustable double beds and king size adjustable beds are two options for sizing.
What Does An Adjustable Bed Do?
An adjustable bed lets you sit or sleep at a position that’s the most comfortable for you. It offers additional support for your potential areas of your body that may suffer from chronic pain, like your head, neck, shoulders, and thighs. The slight vertical incline can help improve your posture when sitting in bed, which in turn will relieve pressure on your back or neck, if you’re reading in bed.
If you’re having real problems sleeping, consider going to see your doctor. However, there are many steps you can take on your own to resolve your sleeping problems.