What The Average Person Needs To Know About Sleep

Sleep. We all need more of it. Here's how to wake up actually feeling refreshed!

Zzzzzzzz

blogger.com / Via Sleep and Dreams course at Birmingham-Southern College

How to get a good night of sleep:

-Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine for at least 6 hours before bedtime.

-Keep the area you sleep in dark, quiet, and cool.

-If a pet wakes you up frequently during the night you may want to have them sleep outside.

-Keep your bed for sleep only. Do not watch t.v., use your phone, or play on the computer in the bed.

-Do not leave the t.v. on while sleeping.

-Establish a relaxing pre-bedtime routine. Get cleaned up and then do some light reading or practice relaxation techniques.

-Try to go to sleep when you’re actually tired. If you are struggling to fall asleep, get up out of bed and read for a little while before returning to try to sleep.

-Do not watch the clock while trying to fall asleep. Turn your clock face away from you.

-Natural light is good for your internal clock so let the sun come in the mornings.

-Try to keep your bedtime and wake time consistent.

-Eat several hours before bedtime and only snack on light foods that won’t keep you awake.

-Take naps early in the day, before 5 p.m. for around 20 minutes for the best results.

-Teenagers need about 9.25 hours of sleep a night.

-Adults need around 8.15 hours of sleep a night.

Although some of these tips may seem difficult to implement into everyday life, just keep working at it. Getting the proper amount and quality of sleep can drastically improve your functioning.

PSA: NEVER drive when you are tired. It is equivalent to driving drunk. You may not realize it, but your brain will take mini naps (called microsleeps) even while you're driving. Bad things can happen. Don't be like the guy in the video.

Sweet Dreams Everyone!