Troubles drifting off at night? Here are some tips on having a good night's sleep
Medical professionals provide a few ideas to help you obtain a decent night's sleep.
Avoid daytime naps. If you have to nap, limit it to 30 minutes or less.
What to do during the day
- Have a clear demarcation between work areas and non-work areas at home if you're telecommuting.
- Keep to the same work hours even if you're working from home.
- If you need to raise an unpleasant issue with a household member or co-worker, do it early in the day.
- Get some sunlight during the day by, for example, sitting beside a brightly lit window when you work.
- Get some exercise to expend excess energy and increase your sleep drive at night. Avoid working out too close to bedtime.
- Cut down on smoking, alcohol, and caffeinated products such as coffee, tea and cola drinks.
- Avoid daytime naps. If you have to nap, limit it to 30 minutes or less.
What to do at bedtime
- Keep to a regular sleep-wake schedule. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day helps your body develop a regular body clock.
- Establish a 30-minute bedtime routine, such as reading a book and putting on some light music, to help your body wind down.
- Keep the bedroom dark, quiet and at a comfortable temperature near bedtime.
- Use the bed only for sleep and intimacy. Using it for other activities such as working or watching videos causes the brain to associate the bed with a state of wakefulness.
How to fight stress
-This period of uncertainty can cause stress for some people. Make time for relaxation and set aside time to do something you enjoy, like watching a movie online or listening to music.