How to fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer
Restlessly tossing and turning through the night can take its toll on the following day’s productivity. A sleepless night can make the next day feel never-ending while also lowering your cognitive function and weakening your immune system.
If you occasionally struggle with getting to sleep or staying asleep, our tips can teach you how to set yourself up for sleep success and which daytime behaviors may be beneficial or detrimental to one’s sleep.
Keep reading to learn why you may struggle with sleepless nights, how to fall asleep faster, and how you can support more healthy sleep patterns.
COMMON CAUSES OF SLEEPLESS NIGHTS
Sleepless nights can be stressful and counting sheep can feel useless as the next day looms and the sun rises. If you are having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep on occasion, it is important to understand the cause to find a solution.
Trouble falling asleep is commonly due to stress, caffeine, inconsistent waking and sleeping hours, or anxiety.
Identifying what may trigger a difficult night’s sleep can help you make changes to go to sleep fast and maximize your restful sleep.
SLEEPING TOO MUCH?
Getting enough sleep is vital for your health; however, oversleeping can have negative impacts on your daytime pursuits as well.
Your body requires enough sleep to remain healthy and alert, generally seven to nine hours, but getting too much sleep can also impact your day negatively. Oversleeping can indicate conditions as common and treatable as depression but can also indicate that something bigger is going on beneath the surface, such as your body fighting off an infection. Sudden oversleeping, however, can be a sign of other physical or psychological conditions. Always consult your doctor if sudden changes in sleep patterns occur.
Below are some common methods that are recommended to help you fall asleep easier:
CREATE A SLEEP-FRIENDLY SPACE
Professionals suggest that optimizing elements of your bedroom can help with sleep issues. Choose a quality mattress, quality pillows, and comfortable, breathable sheets. Some people prefer specific products like weighted blankets and orthopedic pillows.
Furthermore, white noise or lack thereof impacts sleep for some individuals. Perhaps try a fan or a white noise machine to drown out noises beyond your control, or try earplugs or headphones. Simple fixes for light sensitivity, including blackout curtains or wearing an eye mask to bed, can also help.
