We’ve discussed sleep tips in the past when it comes to hot summer nights, but winter wreaks its own havoc on sleepers with the cold and darkness. And if we haven’t made it clear yet, we’re big fans of sleep! So, keep reading for our tips on getting good shuteye in this darker time of year.
Get Your Vitamin D
Sunlight helps keep your circadian rhythm on track, which allows your body to feel its normal cycles of sleepiness and wakefulness. The shorter days in winter mean you need to be extra aware of getting your sunshine in so try to get outside as much as possible and make sure you’re opening blinds and curtains to let the light in during the day.
Get Moving
Exercise is always important, but we tend to slow down in winter months because it’s so dark and cold. Research continually shows that exercise improves sleep for a variety of reasons, but one is that it helps stave off Seasonal Affective Disorder, which can mess with your natural levels of melatonin and thereby impact your sleep. So, keep getting your steps in!
Lay Off the Heat
When it’s cold outside you’ll obviously be turning up the thermostat – but be careful not to heat things up too much. When you get close to 75 degrees you can really mess with your sleep rhythm, and the National Sleep Foundation recommends keeping your bedroom between 60 – 67 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal sleep.
Stick With Your Routine
We’ve talked about the importance of bedtime routine in the past and it’s especially important to stick with it when the seasons change. Going to bed and waking up at the same time each night helps keep your body in rhythm and can set you up for success. In addition, you can add in elements like items from our new Sleep Kit that when used nightly signal your body that it’s time to sleep. The new sleep kit includes a linen spray (scented with lavender, bergamot, & vanilla), candle, bath salts, pillowcase, & sleep-inducing playlist to help you set your own sleep routine.
We hope these tips help you keep you sleeping well this winter! For more tips and ideas, visit our Pinterest Board, ‘A Good Night’s Sleep.’
