The Importance of Sleep

#1: Try to fall into a consistent rhythm.  Go to sleep and wake up around the same time everyday, including weekends.  This will help to set your biological clock and regulate it.

#2: Nap instead of sleeping in.  Taking a nap will do less damage to your sleep cycle and allow you to maintain a regular sleep schedule.  However, napping can make insomnia or troubles falling asleep worse, so nap only if needed.

#3: Watch your light! Artificial light sources have been proven to throw off out biological clocks as when your brain sees a bright light, it connects it to daytime, the time you should be awake.  Try to keep the lights around you fairly consistent with the light outside, so your brain isn’t confused.

#4: Avoid the screens. As stated above, artificial light confuses our sleep cycles, so try to avoid being in front of bright screens or televisions before bed.  That means putting your phone down long before you go to bed. 

#5: Your room.  Your room is important.  The color of the walls and the brightness can affect your sleep habits drastically.  Studies show that blue walls are the best for promoting sleep.  Also try to turn off any screens or sources of light to create a completely dark room.