Tips For a Better Night of Sleep

If you find yourself having a tough time getting a full night of sleep, it could be because you are participating in habits and activities that are harming your ability to get this necessary rest. When you visit Dr. Bryce Eagar and the team at Gateway Oral Health Center in St. George, Utah, one goal we can help you achieve is a better night’s sleep. Whether you are not getting the proper rest due to sleep apnea or some other condition, or you need to alter your habits, our team is here to help you find ways to sleep better. Please read on to discover some ways you can make sure you are setting yourself up for success and a full night of rest.

Stick To a Schedule

It is recommended for a healthy adult to get seven hours of uninterrupted sleep a night, so it is crucial to set aside no more than eight hours a night for this critical activity. Most people will not need more than eight hours of quality sleep to remain well rested. While we all know this is important, too many adults are not getting enough sleep every night. One way you can make this possible is by setting a schedule. Get yourself to bed and get up at the same time each morning, even on weekends. This will assist your body in developing a well-regulated sleep-wake cycle.

Pay Attention to Your Diet

Do your best not to go to bed either hungry or too full. Avoid large or heavy meals in the few hours leading up to your bedtime, as discomfort caused by digestive distress could keep you awake. Foods and other substances containing stimulants, including caffeine or nicotine, should also be avoided. Alcohol could make you sleep on the front end but can disrupt your sleep later in your sleep cycle.

Create A Restful Environment

The environment you have created for your sleep goes a long way. Keep it quiet, dark, and cool. In the hour leading up to sleep, avoid exposure to light sources, such as lit screens on your television, laptop, or cellular device. Calming exercises such as taking a bath or breathing exercises can also help you get into the right place for a restful sleep.

Limit Your Napping

Taking a long nap during the day can interfere with your ability to get a full night’s sleep. If you must nap during the day, limit it to one hour or less, and try to avoid taking this nap late in the day.

Physical Activity

Physical activity during the day can promote a better night’s sleep. However, doing this physical activity too close to bedtime can have the opposite effect. Spending time outside daily can also help.