Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for overall health and well-being, and this is especially true for neurological wellness. The benefits of a restful night’s sleep are numerous, including improved memory, reduced stress, and a more positive mood. However, many people struggle with sleep, often due to poor sleep hygiene practices.
The professional team at Foothills Neurology in Phoenix and Scottsdale, AZ, review the importance of sleep hygiene for neurological wellness and how you can embrace these practices to improve your sleep patterns.
What is Sleep Hygiene?
Sleep hygiene refers to the habits and practices that promote good sleep. It includes everything from the environment in which you sleep to your pre-sleep routine to your diet and exercise habits. By embracing good sleep hygiene practices, you can improve the quality and quantity of your sleep, leading to improved neurological wellness.
More Than Just Getting Enough
Of course, getting the right amount of sleep is critical. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, “School-age children and teens on average need about 9.5 hours of sleep per night. Most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep a night, but after age 60, nighttime sleep tends to be shorter, lighter, and interrupted by multiple awakenings.”
Sleep Schedule
One of the most important aspects of good sleep hygiene is to establish a regular sleep schedule. This means going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, even on weekends. This will help regulate your body’s internal clock and improve the quality of your sleep.
Good Sleeping Environment
Another important aspect of good sleep hygiene is to create a sleep-conducive environment. This means ensuring that your bedroom is cool, quiet, and dark. You should also aim to make your bed as comfortable as possible, with a supportive mattress and pillows.
Getting Ready for Sleep
In addition to creating a good sleep environment, it’s important to establish a pre-sleep routine. This can include activities such as reading a book, taking a warm bath, or practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation. Avoiding stimulating activities such as using electronic devices before bed can also help you to wind down and prepare for sleep.
Diet & Exercise
Finally, your diet and exercise habits can also play a role in your sleep hygiene. Consuming caffeine or alcohol close to bedtime can interfere with your sleep, while regular exercise can help to improve the quality of your sleep. It’s also important to avoid large meals close to bedtime, as this can interfere with your ability to fall asleep.
Get Help with Sleep Disorders
Embracing good sleep hygiene practices is essential for neurological wellness. However, if you suffer from sleep problems, you may have sleep disorders that our team can help. We can test for and diagnose sleep disorders and then recommend a treatment protocol to help you get the rest you need for optimal daily functioning.
Contact Foothills Neurology today at the location convenient to you and talk with a team member about a sleep consultation with one of our skilled neurologists.