A few days ago I walked by my husband watching this news segment on useful tips to fighting insomnia and getting better sleep, and I could not help but tune in. We all have the same problem, admit it! You just can’t fall asleep sometimes. But why?
Of course the obvious reasons that most of us know, but fail to address, are continuously using our iPhones in bed, watching TV too late, checking our emails, working, writing to-do lists, and so on. Although most of us do not have the will power to stop doing these things, there are other ways to ensure a good nights sleep…BEDROOM DESIGN!
Yes! The design of your bedroom has a major role in the way you sleep and the level of relaxation you achieve each night.
So how about we go through some useful design tips to get our rooms sleep time ready, hmm?
1. First things first: a good mattress is key
Well, duh. Having a good comfortable mattress that suits your unique body’s needs is so important, I cannot stress it enough. It would be worth while to try out a few mattresses in stores with a knowledgable sales associate and take one home that you felt was best. Most mattress companies offer a limited guarantee (anywhere from 30-90 days) where you can try their mattresses and if you aren’t completely satisfied, bring them back!
There are all sorts of mattress types and sizes. Give one a shot, and make sure your mattress is big enough to accommodate the spouse that rolls over onto your side in the middle of the night!
2. Color is a game changer
Color psychology is an interesting thing. Every color elicits a different mood out of people. For example, the color red can provoke anger or excitement, while neutral colors bring out calm in people. So when working on your bedroom, try to steer clear of any overly powerful colors.
Designing your bedroom to encompass neutral colors will create a soothing environment meant for total tranquility. Soft materials like wool, linen, velvets, cotton and silk are so rich, elegant and above all calming. Textures and intricate patterns add decadent layers to a design and create interest that is not too distracting to the eye when trying to sleep. Accents of beautiful wood tones really keep to a neutral and natural color palette and further the zen mode you are trying to go for. If you really love color, try bringing in some smaller doses as accents on throw pillows, art and accessories. The main goal is to bring together a room that screams “SPA.”
3. Total Darkness
In this day and age, almost everything we touch glows and when we are trying to get some shut eye, all these devices are a big no no. Clocks, TV, phones, etc. should be removed from the bedroom or creatively hidden. Think built-ins with doors that close off the television or side table drawers with chargers built-in to hide your phone. Even using vintage clocks can add some character to your bedroom design and eliminate that unnecessary glow.
Another useful tip: invest in some black out shades!! Blocking out super bright light from the outdoors is super helpful in ensuring a completely dark space to snooze. Think street lights, car lights, early morning sun and so on, that can peak through your windows when you don’t want them to.
Our bodies are naturally inclined to follow darkness as a signal to sleep. And so, reducing the amount of light in our bedrooms is vital.
4. Clean your room!
Our minds are so easily distracted by anything and everything. Keeping our rooms clean and clutter free allows us to focus on relaxation rather than on how many objects are surrounding us. Seeing too many things will keep your mind running rather than slowing down.
5. Keep it cool…
Temperature plays a big role on how easily we can achieve comfort when trying to fall asleep. Having a room that is too hot will leave the air dry and make you sweat while a room that is too cold can give you a headache and the chills.
Aim for a comfortable room temperature that is more on the cool side so you get to warm up under your blankets. Cozy….mmmm!
6. Make it smell nice
There is a reason as to why almost all baby shampoos and lotions advertise “bedtime lavender.” Lavender is proven to decrease your heart rate and blood pressure, allowing you to relax and get a good nights sleep.
Surround yourself with fresh flowers or oil diffuses with soothing scents to keep your mind at ease.
7. Keep it down!!
MOST IMPORTANT OF ALL…keep it down!! I mean, some people can sleep through a noisy train ride or party, but let’s face it…most of us can’t!
So do yourself a favor, turn off the tv, close your door, shut your window and do whatever you can to minimize or better yet, completely eliminate any noise in the bedroom.
I would love to hear how you guys used these tips, or if you have any tips of your own!
Thats all for now.
Sweet Dreams!
Tanya
