5 Tips For Improving Your Sleep
by Stacy on Jul 05, 2023
At Meadow, we’re all about finding ways to holistically improve your life. This means not focusing only on one aspect of wellness, and instead looking at ways every part of our lives intersects — and how improving one aspect has the potential to improve others as well. One of the basic starting points of holistic wellness is your quality of sleep.
It’s no secret that we’re passionate about helping you reach the highest quality of sleep possible (in fact, it’s what our entire brand is built upon!). Getting a good night's sleep is essential for overall well-being and productivity. However, we know that with the demands of modern life, achieving quality sleep can sometimes be a challenge. If you're struggling with your sleep, incorporating a few simple habits into your nighttime routine can make a significant difference:
Turn Your Screens Off Before Bed
It’s a tale as old as time — turn off your screens before bed and you’ll get better sleep. But, it’s not always that easy. In today's digital age, we are constantly surrounded by screens. From smartphones that allow us to keep in touch with our loved ones to TVs that help indulge in our favorite shows and movies and even to tablets which are often used for reading or catching up on emails — avoiding screens entirely is nearly impossible throughout the day. But, this constant exposure to the blue light of electronics can disrupt our natural sleep-wake cycle, making it harder to fall asleep and achieve restful slumber. To promote better sleep, make it a habit to turn off all screens at least one hour before bedtime. Instead, engage in relaxing activities that prepare your mind and body for sleep.
Meditate or Journal Before Bed
After turning off your screens, use that last hour before bed to engage in peaceful activities like meditating or journaling. Engaging in calming activities before bed can help quiet a busy mind and promote relaxation. Meditation involves focusing your attention and being present in the moment, which can reduce stress and promote a peaceful state of mind. Alternatively, journaling allows you to unload your thoughts onto paper, relieving any mental clutter that may interfere with sleep. Experiment with different meditation techniques or journaling styles to find what works best for you. (PS: this is a great excuse to treat yourself and indulge in the quality of our luxury stationery — because we believe that your deepest thoughts deserve only the best paper to be written on!)
Read Before Bed
If meditating or journaling isn’t really your thing, consider reading for an hour before bed instead. Reading before bed is a classic way to wind down and prepare for sleep. However, it's important to choose material that is not too stimulating or anxiety-inducing. Opt for calming and enjoyable books, such as fiction or non-fiction that doesn't require intense concentration (not the anxiety-inducing news headlines or academic papers you may be drawn to throughout the day). Reading can be a great way to shift your focus away from daily worries and distractions, allowing your mind to relax and prepare for restful sleep.
Invest in Silky Pajamas
Whether you believe it or not, it’s proven that the clothes you wear to bed can impact your sleep quality. Investing in high-quality, silky pajamas can enhance your comfort and contribute to a more relaxing sleep experience. Silky pajamas, like the ones found in our Hotel pajama collection are not only luxurious but also gentle on the skin, promoting a sense of well-being and comfort. The smooth texture of silky material can minimize irritation and keep you cool throughout the night, contributing to a more restful sleep.
Have a Structured Nighttime Routine
Establishing a structured nighttime routine can signal to your body that it's time to unwind and prepare for sleep. Consistency is key, so aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Prioritize activities that promote relaxation and help you wind down, such as taking a warm bath, practicing gentle stretching or yoga, or enjoying a calming cup of herbal tea, or taking time for an extensive skincare routine. By creating a routine that aligns with your needs and preferences, you can condition your body to recognize the cues for sleep and optimize your sleep quality.
We encourage you to embrace and experiment with these strategies, personalize them to suit your preferences, and enjoy the benefits of a good night's sleep for improved well-being and overall quality of life!