Sleep habits... do's and dont's

 3 Habits to Quit for Better Sleep 


    Throughout this course, I am going to use my blog to discuss topics related to health and lifestyle including exercise, sleep, diet and more. In this post, I am going to focus on sleep schedules and how we can improve ours.

    I first want to discuss what habits may be preventing you from getting efficient sleep. With some research, I found that there are three main things you should avoid in close proximity to your bedtime:

1.) Screen time. Avoiding screen time before bed is stressed by many, and it is scientifically proven why you should do it. The blue light emitted from your screen tricks your brain into thinking that is is day time, which stops melatonin production. Melatonin is the hormone that helps induce sleep, and it's more difficult to fall asleep when your brain is producing less of it.

2.) Exercise. While light intensity workouts may be beneficial before bed, high intensity exercise should be avoided. Strenuous activity like such raises heart rate and stimulates the nervous system. This is why intense workouts close to bedtime may make it more difficult to fall asleep. Examples of intense workouts include heavy weightlifting and intense cardio. Less intense alternatives include walking, yoga and stretching. 

3.) Certain food/ drinks. Some foods or beverages are known to interfere with sleep patterns, the most common being caffeine. Caffeine is arousing and stimulates the brain by increasing activity and the circulation of cortisol and adrenaline, which is why it should be avoided a few hours before you go to sleep. Alcohol is another thing that should be avoided in close proximity to bed time. Though it is sedating at first, it can actually prevent one from staying asleep, which is why many people wake up early after a night of drinking. 


    Overall, these are three important habits that could be preventing you from falling or staying asleep. I have tried to avoid these habits and did find that they helped me fall asleep more easily and wake up feeling well rested.

196 Man Can't Sleep Stock Video Footage - 4K and HD Video Clips | Shutterstock   

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