Sleep hygiene refers to the behaviors, habits, and practices that support healthy, sufficient sleep. Maintaining good sleep hygiene is crucial for both physical and mental health.
Why is sleep hygiene important?
Getting adequate, high-quality sleep ensures we are rested and allows our bodies to repair themselves, consolidate memories, and process information. Without proper sleep, we are more likely to experience issues like:
Following sleep best practices and having a consistent bedtime routine sets us up for optimal sleep. Some examples of positive sleep hygiene habits include:
Making small changes to follow these tips can lead to big improvements in how well-rested you feel!
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Some other questions folks often ask about sleep hygiene include:
How many hours of sleep do adults need? The National Sleep Foundation recommends 7-9 hours of sleep per night for healthy adults. Getting too little sleep can negatively impact focus, performance, and long term health.
What helps you fall asleep faster? Relaxation techniques like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or meditation can help reduce stress levels right before bed. Establishing a consistent pre-bed routine also signals to your body it's time to wind down and prepares you for rest.
What foods should you avoid before bed? Avoid heavy, spicy, or sugary foods as well as caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime. These can stimulate digestion or disrupt sleep cycles. Light snacks like chamomile tea, nuts, yogurt or bananas make better options if you're hungry near bed.
Hope this gives a helpful overview of what sleep hygiene entails and why it's so vital for health and wellbeing! Let me know if you have any other questions.