This week is Sleep Awareness Week, just in time for the Daylight Savings Time change, so we will be giving you tips and info about getting a healthy amount of sleep each day.
Approximately 30% of Americans suffer from some insomnia symptoms, and 10% have issues functioning during the day because of it.
37 million people regularly snore, and many who snore have sleep apnea, where they stop breathing while sleeping. Sleep apnea hurts your daytime activity and is tied to more serious health problems.
Try keeping a sleep diary to monitor how well you sleep. This will be especially helpful if you visit a doctor for the problem. Devices like a Fitbit also keep detailed info on your sleep patterns.
Stop drinking caffeine 4 to 6 hours before bed to fall asleep more easily.
Don’t exercise 3 hours or less before bed. Exercise wakes up your system and can make it hard to fall asleep.
If you have trouble sleeping, wind down before bed with calming activities, like taking a relaxing bath or reading.
Turn off devices at least an hour before you go to sleep. The light from your TV, phone, and tablet screens can mess with the hormones that help you sleep. Machines and apps that recreate sounds like rain can make noise without the light.