A cosy room is the key to a good night''s sleep
23/01/2012
Making the bedroom as quiet, dark and cosy as possible has been outlined as an important factor for a good night's sleep, according to Stanford University’s Dr William C Dement.
Dr Dement highlighted the importance of a good night's sleep for making good decisions, feeling happy and operating at peak performance in an interview with the Herald News. He recommended several considerations that should be kept in mind when heading off to bed.
Maintaining a regular and predictable sleep schedule was particularly important, and is often on the top of the list of recommendations by sleep specialists. Something you may not be aware of, however, is the importance of sunlight during the day. Dr Dement recommends at least 15 minutes of sunlight a day, as it sets the circadian rhythm for sleep cycles.
He also recommends using the bed only for sleeping at night, and trying to avoid taking naps during the day.
If you are struggling to sleep, there are a few other suggestions that could assist you in getting your head down. Dairy products, such as milk, contain tryptophan which is a natural sleep chemical so try having a glass of the white stuff before bed.
You should also avoid eating a big meal before bed, and try not to force sleep by going to bed without feeling tired.
According to figures provided by the BBC, 25 per cent of the UK population suffer from some form of sleep disorder that results in excessive daytime sleepiness. Snoring, sleep apnoea, insomnia and restless leg syndrome are the main disorders that keep us from sleeping.
Many of these disorders can have an effect not just upon yourself, but on the people around you, such as partners and family making good sleeping habits very important.
A comfortable environment will help overcome many sleep impediments, which will reap benefits for both you and your family.
Posted by Michael Ewing
