Sleep Week Challenge

Take the Naturepedic #RespectYourSleep Challenge

Sleep Awareness Week is April 23 - 29, 2017 and we’ve put together five easy ways you can #RespectYourSleep and take advantage of better sleep habits. You can choose one each day this week or mix and match as they work for you. As you build healthier habits, you should get a better, more restful night’s sleep.

While most people have a problem with not sleeping enough, don’t forget that you can also get too much of a good thing. In general, you should aim to get at least six hours of sleep, but up to nine can be normal for you depending on your sleep patterns. Read our blog about oversleeping for more information and healthy sleep tips.

Today’s blog post has five simple tips you can implement right away. We hope that you can choose one or two at a minimum to get started on better sleep habits. If you do all five this week, let us know which one is your favorite!

1. Turn Down the Thermostat: According to the National Sleep Foundation, the ideal temperature for sleeping is between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit. Your first #RespectYourSleep Challenge this week is to turn the thermostat down when it’s time for bed. Try this temperature trick each night this week and see if you notice a difference in how fast you fall asleep.

2. Set Up a Docking Station: It’s not a sleep challenge without talking about screen time, since the blue light from electronic devices can interrupt sleep and leave you feeling unrested. To combat this inevitable distraction, set up a docking station for your electronics outside your bedroom. #RespectYourSleep by trying it for the rest of the week and see what happens.

3. Skip the Nightcap: A glass of wine before bed might make you feel a little more sleepy, but alcohol contributes to poor sleep quality, according to the National Sleep Foundation. #RespectYourSleep by replacing an evening glass of wine with a warm mug of herbal tea like Traditional Medicinals Nighty Night this week, and see if you wake more rested than usual.

4. Strategize Your Hydration: If you get to bedtime and realize you haven’t had enough water during the day, it’s easy to drink a big glass right before bed. You can see where this is going - you’ll probably wake up in a few hours for an emergency trip to the bathroom! Rather than sleeping with a water bottle close at hand, plan your water consumption better throughout the day so you’re well hydrated without a last minute guzzle. #RespectYourSleep by drinking your water throughout the day, and set a timer for 8:00am, 10:00am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, and 4:00pm to stay on top of your refills.

5. Make a Routine: Design a bedtime routine that you can do consistently. Try running a warm bath each night for a quick soak. While the water runs, you can do some quick stretches, wash your face, and steep a cup of herbal tea. Relax in the tub with a book or your journal where you can jot down reminders that usually keep you up at night. Dry off, put on your pajamas, and brush your teeth. Now you’re ready for bed. If you can’t do a nightly bath, find a small routine you can commit to that helps signal your brain that it’s time to start winding down. #RespectYourSleep by planning your ideal 5-15 minute bedtime routine and sticking to it.

Take the Sleep Week Challenge

Are you ready to take the #RespectYourSleep Challenge? Let us know at least ONE new habit you’re trying for Sleep Awareness Week, and check in to let us know how it improves your sleep.