Sleep hygiene

Sleep hygiene is the term used for methods and habits used to ensure a good night's sleep. Various guidelines exist, created by sleep centers, medical hospitals, and other medical and mental health professionals. These guidelines include eating and exercise habits, understanding the circadian rhythm, and understanding sleep's role in our lives. The University of Maryland Medical Center is a highly cited source for sleep hygiene guidelines.

One of the most important habits is to go to bed and get up at the same time each night and morning. For example, go to bed each night at 9pm and get up each morning at 5am. This helps your body and mind to establish a habit and to set your circadian rhythm. If you find you wake up earlier than you thought you should, adjust the time you go to sleep. For example, if you go to bed at 9pm and awaken refreshed at 4am, go to bed at 10pm. Some people do not need a full 8 hours. You may find you need more than eight and, again, adjust the time you go to bed. Also be aware of your 'chronotype'[1]: night owl or a morning lark.

Another habit is to not use the bed for anything other than sexual relations and sleep. Do not read, watch television, or eat while in bed. This is another way to get your mind and body into the habit of going to sleep when you lay down.

External Links

Read the articles for a description of these highlights.

National Sleep Foundation - Sleep Hygiene

1. Set Your Sleep Schedule
   1. Have a Fixed Wake-Up Time
   2. Prioritize Sleep
   3. Make Gradual Adjustments
   4. Don’t Overdo It With Naps
2. Follow a Nightly Routine
   1. Keep Your Routine Consistent
   2. Budget 30 Minutes For Winding Down
   3. Dim Your Lights
   4. Unplug From Electronics
   5. Test Methods of Relaxation
   6. Don’t Toss and Turn
3. Cultivate Healthy Daily Habits
   1. Get Daylight Exposure:
   2. Be Physically Active
   3. Don’t Smoke
   4. Reduce Alcohol Consumption
   5. Cut Down on Caffeine in the Afternoon and Evening
   6. Don’t Dine Late
   7. Restrict In-Bed Activity
4. Optimize Your Bedroom
   1. Have a Comfortable Mattress and Pillow
   2. Use Excellent Bedding
   3. Set a Cool Yet Comfortable Temperature
   4. Block Out Light
   5. Drown Out Noise
   6. Try Calming Scents

Harvard Medical School - Twelve Simple Tips to Improve Your Sleep

1. Avoid Caffeine, Alcohol, Nicotine, and Other Chemicals that Interfere with Sleep
2. Turn Your Bedroom into a Sleep-Inducing Environment
3. Establish a Soothing Pre-Sleep Routine
4. Go to Sleep When You’re Truly Tired
5. Don’t Be a Nighttime Clock-Watcher
6. Use Light to Your Advantage
7. Keep Your Internal Clock Set with a Consistent Sleep Schedule
8. Nap Early—Or Not at All
9. Lighten Up on Evening Meals
10. Balance Fluid Intake
11. Exercise Early
12. Follow Through

References

chronotype - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronotype Definition

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