How to get your perfect night’s sleep now
IT SEEMS a common problem among seniors to not be able to sleep soundly.
Whether this means not being able to fall asleep, waking multiple times during the night, or just waking much earlier than you hoped to, sleeplessness can be extremely frustrating.
Here are a few tips for getting the best nights’ sleep.
Eliminate drafts
Being cold or getting hit with an unexpected breeze can wake you up mid-sleep, not to mention a rattling door can drive anyone mad.
Shower before bed
The warm water with both keep you warm when you hop in bed, and relax you into falling asleep faster.
Have a fixed room temperature
The ideal temp is between 18 and 21 degrees.
This helps the body to release the sleeping agent melatonin.
Flannel, flannel, flannel
Provided you don’t entangle yourself in the bed by using flannel pajamas and sheets at the same time, flannel is wonderful in aiding sleep.
It’s a great insulator, as is wool, fleece, and silk, and will keep you warm — but not overheated — overnight.
Wearing bed socks also acts as a sedative.
Enjoy a warm drink
Warm milk is a traditional bedtime drink for a reason — the warmth and high magnesium are ideal for promoting sleep.
Adding honey is a sweet way to aid relaxation.
If milk isn’t your cup of tea, try... tea!
While you might want to avoid black tea, herbal ones like camomile, rose, or lavendar, work wonders.
Turn off technology
The harsh light from televisions, computers, tablets and phones confuse the body’s day-night rhythm.
Implement a screen-free time for at least half an hour before bed every night.
Sleep well!