Do you have trouble falling asleep at night? You’re not alone. According to the CDC, insomnia affects more than one-third of all Americans.

Common causes include stress, depression, and anxiety. However, it may also be due to poor sleep habits.

Fortunately, there are things that you can do to improve your shut eye. For instance, it helps to practice good sleep hygiene.

What is sleep hygiene? Why is it important? Want to know? If so, be sure to read the rest of the post!

How Much Sleep Do I Need?

Most adults need at least 7 hours of sleep on a regular schedule each night. It’s important to note, however, that the exact amount varies from person to person.

For example, some people may require a full 9 hours to function at their best. At the same time, others may be able to get by with less.

What Is Sleep Hygiene? 4 Tips For a Good Night’s Sleep 

Sleep hygiene refers to healthy habits that can improve the quality of your sleep. Here are a few things to consider.

1. Reduce Blue Light Exposure 

Blue light can affect your natural sleep and wake cycle. More specifically, it blocks your body from producing a hormone called melatonin, which makes you sleepy. 

Given that, you want to minimize your nighttime blue light exposure. For instance, it may be a good idea to stop watching TV a couple of hours before bed. Similarly, you might want to put away your smartphones and tablets.

2. Don’t Drink Coffee Late in the Day

Avoid drinking coffee late in the day—it’ll stimulate your nervous system so that you’ll have a harder time relaxing at night. In other words, it’ll be harder for you to fall asleep. 

If you must drink a cup in the evening, stick with decaffeinated coffee. At least that won’t have an effect on your sleep!

3. Don’t Eat Big Meals Before Bedtime

Don’t eat large meals before going to bed. Studies have shown that it can affect melatonin production, which in return, can affect your sleep quality.

With that said, it does depend on the type of food that you’re eating. For instance, low carb snacks may actually improve your sleep.

4. Pick the Right Mattress

Believe it or not but the quality of your mattress can have a huge impact only on our sleep. After all, you’ll be lying on it for several hours!

Ideally, you want something that will keep your spine in a neutral position while supporting your whole body. That’s why it’s so important to do your research when you’re looking for the perfect mattress.

Improving Your Sleep

Now you can answer the question, “what is sleep hygiene”. As you can see, there are several steps that you can take to improve your shut-eye. 

For more health and fitness related posts, check out the rest of our website!