How to Get More Deep Sleep to Boost Your Productivity When You’re Awake
Are you ready to start getting more sleep? Being well-rested is such a productivity booster. That’s what we are focusing on today.
Why you need to get more sleep
Another habit that will dramatically improve your life is to make sure you get enough sleep. How much sleep you need will vary depending on what your body needs. I need a lot of sleep and have no problem taking a nap if I don’t get that sleep.
When you don’t let your body get the sleep that it needs you are depriving your mind and body and although you may be up for more hours of the day you won’t be running at 100% so you aren’t accomplishing as much as you could be. Getting an extra hour of sleep or allowing yourself to grab a nap can make the hours you are awake so much more productive because you won’t be fighting exhaustion.
While getting enough sleep is so important I’m also trying to get up earlier so that my day can start at a decent time. So trying to fall asleep earlier is something I’ve been working hard on.
If you’ve been struggling to go to sleep. Here are some tips to try to get better at it. When you are able to fall asleep easier than you will be able to get up earlier and still be rested.
How to go to sleep easier
Limit caffeine especially in the hours before bed.
It’s no secret that I love caffeine. I love coffee and the occasional soda, and I will not be giving it up any time soon. I do limit myself to two cups per day, and I try not to drink it after 4 p.m. each day.
If you’re struggling with falling asleep at night, limiting your caffeine intake might be something worth trying.
Try going to bed at the same time and waking up at the same time daily.
Just as you set your alarm to get up in the morning, try setting a regular bedtime. It sounds silly, but we do it with our kids all the time. We know the importance of getting a full night’s sleep—plus we’ve all seen the aftermath of a too-late bedtime.
Make it the same time every night, even on weekends. Aim for something realistic you can hold to. If you’re guilty of staying up too late on a regular basis, consider scaling back in 10-15 minute increments until you’re hitting your goal bedtime regularly.
Keep your bedroom cool but not cold
The best temperature for sleep is between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit.
Limit TV or electronics
This will help your body develop a routine for sleeping. I struggle with falling asleep and find that if I watch anything stimulating or exciting before bed it’s harder to fall asleep so if I watch tv at night I try to make it lighthearted or funny only.
Get more Exercise
Regular exercise has multiple benefits and is key to an overall healthy lifestyle. Yet another benefit of exercise is that it will help you sleep.
Avoid alcohol before bed
While that nightcap really can make it feel easier to fall asleep, when your buzz wears off later in the night, you’re more likely to wake up frequently.
