Creating the ideal sleep environment (Photos)

Sleep is very important – in fact without it, we would become the race of zombies that everyone fears so much. Ideally, everyone should get eight hours of sleep, but in a hustle and bustle life where we work around the clock to make end’s meet, that may not be the case. And while we may not be able to change your sleep habits, I can offer some ways to make your sleep environment more efficient.

This week is National Sleep Awareness Week™ and the perfect time to reevaluate the importance of sleep and how to achieve it. The National Sleep Foundation (yes there is such an organization) continues their work to educate us all on sleep health, identifying disorders and more. In thinking about a good night’s rest, I pondered on what you need to help ensure you complete those ever necessary REM cycles.

Below are a few tips from the National Sleep Foundation along with my picks for a bed that is perfect for hibernation. To learn more about sleep, visit NSF online at www.sleepfoundation.org.

{CREATING THE IDEAL SLEEP ENVIRONMENT}

  • Put away all work, shut off the computer and do not turn on the television close to bedtime. Doing so will make falling asleep harder
  • Avoid bright lights and set bedroom illumination to ambient in the evening
  • Dress warm and lower the thermostat. Lowering the temperature sets the stage for sleep. Should you get too cold, stock up on blankets, throws and warmer pajamas
  • Replace mattresses and pillows once worn (typically replace mattress every 5-7 years and pillows once a year)
  • Use earplugs if and when needed

1. Oksar Humidifier, FRONTGATE 2. Fresh Linen Scent Diffuser, Waterworks 3. Clouds Throw, Calypso St. Barth 4. Vibrating Alarm Clock and Sleep Tracker, Lark 5. White Goose Down Year Round Hungarian 650 Comforter, Sleep Studio 6. Feather-Down Bed Pillows, Crate & Barrel 7. Garment-Dyed Textured Linen Bedding Collection, Restoration Hardware

Advertisement

, Decorating Examiner

Tanvier Peart is a lifestyle authority with expertise in decorating, entertaining and more. She is the executive editor of the Casa Diseno blog and a freelance contributor to national news sources like CBS Local. When she is not creating articles, Tanvier enjoys married life, staying active,...

Today's top buzz...