Hot summer nights may affect your sleep more than you realize.
The heat can make it uncomfortable and challenging to get adequate sleep. It is vital to your overall health to get the correct amount of sleep your body needs every night, which is between 7-9 hours for adults.
The Sleep Doctor, Michael J. Breus, Ph.D., discusses in one of his articles how summer doesn’t have to be unfriendly to sleep. If you follow some simple steps to ensure you have a comfortable sleeping atmosphere at night, you can protect your sleep this summer and go into the Fall feeling better than ever. Some summer sleep tips The Sleep Doctor recommends are keeping to your sleep schedule, loading up on Vitamin D, and spending some time in nature.
What To Do
- Health recommends making your bedroom lights dim at night – This will help both your mind and body get relaxed and ready for bed.
- Take a shower or bath a couple of hours before going to bed – Getting that squeaky clean feeling before bed will have you feeling calm and stress-free. It also helps to cool down your body temperature keeping you comfortable throughout the night.
- Wear light pajamas – Wearing light fabrics such as silk or linen will help to keep your body temperature cool during sleep.
- Stay hydrated – The Mayo Clinic states that men should drink 15.5 cups of water, and women should drink 11.5 cups of water daily. Try not to drink too much of that water before bed, or you may find yourself waking up in the middle of the night needing to use the restroom.
- Sleep in light sheets and blankets – Switch out those winter flannel sheets if you still have them on the bed. Aim to use a more breathable material such as lightweight cotton or bamboo for your summer bedding.
Keep Cool
If you find yourself waking up at night sweating or not being able to fall or stay asleep every night, talk to your healthcare provider about what you are experiencing. It could be because of the heat, but there is the possibility it could be something more serious. It’s always better to rule everything out so you can rest assured you are as healthy as ever.
Making these slight changes to your nighttime atmosphere and bedtime routine will have you beating the heat, giving you your best summer sleep!
Be sure to check in with the QDME Journal for new blogs and fascinating topics.
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