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Helpful Tips for Better Sleep Hygiene


Tips for Improved Sleep Hygiene


If you have problems sleeping, them it is important that you practice good sleep hygiene. This means doing things which are known to improve sleep, and avoiding things which are known to disturb sleep. Here are 10 things you should know about getting better sleep; each of these points is based on scientific research, and could help you to get the most out of your sleep.

Remember, this advice only applies if you are having sleep difficulties:

1) Products containing caffeine (tea, coffee, cocoa, chocolate, soft drinks, energy drinks, etc) should be discontinued at least 4 hours before bedtime. Caffeine is a stimulant and can keep you awake.
2) Avoid nicotine (including nicotine patches, gum, vaping, etc) an hour before bedtime and when waking at night. Nicotine is also a stimulant.
3) Avoid alcohol around bedtime because although it can promote falling asleep, it can disrupt sleep later in the night.
4) Avoid eating a large meal immediately before bedtime, although a light snack may be beneficial.
5) Try to do regular (even mild) physical activity if you are able, but avoid doing this in the 2 hours before bedtime.
6) Keep the bedroom calm and tidy. Select a mattress, sheets, and pillows that are comfortable for you.
7) Avoid making your bedroom too hot or too cold.
8) Keep the bedroom quiet and darkened during the night, but try to spend some time in daylight (or bright artificial light) during the day.
9) Keep your bedroom mainly for sleeping; try to avoid watching television, listening to the radio, or eating in your bedroom.
10) Try to keep regular times for going to bed and for getting up.

Sleep Diary

Complete this diary each morning. Don't worry too much about exact answers, an estimate will do.

1) Date
2) At what time did you go to bed last night?
3) After settling down, how long did it take you to fall asleep?
4) After falling asleep, about how many times did you wake up in the night?
5) After falling asleep, for how long were you awake during the night TOTAL?
6) At what time did you wake up?
7) At what time did you get up?
8) How long did you spend in bed last night (from first getting in to actually getting up)?
9) How would you rate the quality of your sleep last night, (1) being very poor, (5) being very good?

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