Sleep hygiene refers to healthy habits, behaviors, and environmental factors that can be adjusted to help you have a good nights sleep. It is a term used to describe both your sleep environment and behavior. Poor sleep hygiene can negatively impact both sleep quantity and quality. Here are some habits that can improve your sleep hygiene:
- Be consistent. Go to bed at the same time each night and get up at the same time each morning, including on the weekends.
- Make sure your bedroom is quiet, dark, relaxing, and at a comfortable temperature.
- Remove electronic devices, such as TVs, computers, and smartphones, from the bedroom.
- Avoid large meals, caffeine, and alcohol before bedtime.
- Get some exercise. Being physically active during the day can help you fall asleep more easily at night.
It is important to note that sleep hygiene on its own is not a treatment for insomnia. However, it can play a key part in achieving healthy sleep, which is important for both physical and mental health, improving productivity, and overall quality of life.
