Although occasional difficulty with sleeping isn’t usually anything to worry about, regularly missing out on a good night’s rest is a concern that requires some attention. Here are three common reasons you might not consistently get the quality sleep you need, as well as how to address them.
Snoring Is Disrupting Your Sleep
Snoring affects a significant portion of the US population, but in many cases, it is mild enough to only be bothersome to sleep partners who are impacted by the noise. However, since research shows that both the sound of your own snoring as well as the breathing difficulties that sometimes cause it may awaken you frequently, your nighttime noises can be a big reason you’re not getting proper rest.
Ear, nose, and throat specialists can diagnose and correct your snoring problem. An ENT doctor might recommend lifestyle changes to reduce your snoring, such as losing weight or cutting out cigarettes and alcohol. They may also prescribe an oral appliance or even surgery to solve your snoring problem. Consulting with a professional can help you get the peaceful slumber you need.
Your Bedroom Is Too Warm
It might surprise you to learn how much your environment impacts your ability to sleep well. When you routinely wake up feeling more tired than when you went to bed, it could be the temperature of your bedroom that’s causing your restlessness.
Because cold temperatures are often associated with getting sick, it seems counterintuitive that a cool room is more conducive to good sleep. Yet snoozing in a cold bedroom gives your body its best shot at maintaining an even core temperature, which in turn reduces the tossing and turning that comes from being uncomfortable. Experts recommend a room temperature of 60 to 67 degrees; going any lower can disrupt sleep by causing your body to have to work too hard to warm you up. Dialing in the right amount of coolness will have you sleeping more calmly.
You’re Not Getting the Right Exercise
Exercise is good for you in so many ways, and getting enough can be a key factor in sleeping soundly. However, working out too vigorously in the hours leading up to bedtime is often counterproductive, as it takes your body several hours to fully wind down from intense exercise.
Instead of getting your heart pumping, engage in lighter activities during the late afternoon and evening. Taking a walk around the block or practicing yoga are good ways to gain the healthful benefits of movement without taxing your system and compromising your ability to rest well overnight. Doing the right exercises at the right time of day will set you up for sleep success.
By addressing snoring problems, cooling down your bedroom, and making the right exercise choices later in the day, you’ll be tackling some of the issues that can impede your ability to get proper rest. Try fixing one or more of these concerns, and you’ll likely see an improvement in the amount and quality of your nightly sleep.