Getting a good night’s rest is arguably one of the largest determining factors when it comes to productivity, happiness, and general wellbeing. One of the biggest problems people face when trying to get to sleep is overheating, and with record heat waves hitting every summer, it is important that you know how to stay cool.
Why do I get so hot when I sleep?
The environment you are sleeping in and the bedding you sleep on are the most prevalent causes of a sweaty night. Your sleeping position can affect your temperature as well. If you sleep on your back or spoon with a partner, then you may want to rethink how you are laying in bed. The less contact your body has with the mattress, the better. Sleeping on your side can minimize contact with the surface of the mattress. If that is uncomfortable for you, sleeping in the starfish position, limbs extended to the corners of the bed, can also be effective.
Warm shower or bath
Though it may seem counterintuitive, taking a warm (but not hot) shower before bed can help lower your body’s core temperature. Though it may rise initially, once you are out of the shower, your body will adjust and begin cooling. Warm showers have also been known to decrease the amount of time it takes to fall asleep.
Light dinners and the right snacks
Heavy meals that are full of carbs, fats, and spices take a larger amount of your body’s energy to digest. This release of energy slightly increases the core body temperature, making it harder to sleep, which is why it’s important to stick to something healthy before bed. If you are craving a midnight snack, popcorn and dark chocolate are shown to be natural sleep aids.
Keep the blinds closed
Having your blinds open all day, especially in the summer, is a sure way to increase not only the temperature in your room but your AC bill as well. Investing in black-out curtains will help keep the room cool and keep the morning light out of the room.
Drinks or dreams
Late-night drinks are always tempting, but they can cause heat flashes and night sweats. As your body processes the alcohol, it causes the blood vessels to expand and move closer to the surface of the skin, causing you to sweat.
Ice water
Keep some ice water nearby if you are worried about a warm night. A sweaty sleep can result in dehydration, so it’s a good idea to keep water nearby in case you wake up thirsty. The cool water lowers your core temperature too, so you can get back to sleep as soon as possible.
Still, having trouble sleeping?
Everyone deserves a good night’s sleep, and if you are still having trouble getting to sleep, you can call Sleep Center Jacksonville FL. Many people blame sleep apnea for their difficulty sleeping, but that may not be the case at all. A sleep apnea study shows that most people think the reason they snore is due to apnea, but this is simply not the case. If you have any questions don’t hesitate to contact a sleep apnea specialist in Jacksonville FL, so that you can get the rest you need.
