If you’re having trouble falling asleep every night, or just occasionally, take a look at these tips below to ensure that you set yourself up for sleep success.
It’s all about routine
Set yourself up for success by going back to the basics. Have you ever put a kid to bed? There’s usually a whole process – putting on cartoon-covered PJs, brushing teeth, being read to in bed, and then tucked in nice and cozy. Try to give yourself a consistent wind down pattern as well. Also aim to go to sleep around the same time each night and wake up at the same time each morning.
Sleep environments matter
You want your sleep space to be dark, cool, and quiet. Put your screens away — phones, televisions, computers, etc., at least one hour before you plan to fall asleep. Find a way to encourage sleepiness, like a cup of warm tea. Try blackout curtains if you have light coming in through windows.
Get out and get active
Avoid excessive time in bed. As soon as your alarm clock goes off, challenge yourself to get up and moving. That way, your body will associate being in bed with sleep. Try to be active during the day so you’re more tired come night time. It’s easier to fall asleep when your brain and body are tired.
Still struggling to sleep after spending a good amount of effort on strategies like these? Talk to your medical provider at Campus Care for additional ideas.