Summer is a time for fun. You would think it would be easier to relax and sleep on lazy, hazy days.
The reality is the opposite. Many people have trouble going to sleep during the summer.
The days are longer, pollen is in full force and the heat can make bedrooms uncomfortable even with air conditioning.
It can be challenging to settle down after a day of summer activities.
There are some practical things you can do to increase your deep sleep and feel more rested when you wake up the next day.
Psychiatrist Dr. Cameron Johnson of Loma Linda University Health has some suggestions on how to keep your summer sleep going through the warmer months.
Keep your bedroom cool and dark
Your body has biorhythms and much of that is associated with daylight and other types of environments.
People sleep better in a cool room and keeping it dark in the evening hours will help sleep.
Buy some window darkening shades you can start pulling down at 8 p.m.
Turn your air down cooler at night and use a ceiling fan if you have one.
Use lighter sheets and covers for summer coolness.
Invest in a cooling blanket
Those who are naturally hot may want to invest in a cooling blanket for summer.
This can be especially helpful if your body runs hotter than your partner’s body.
There are cooling pillows as well.
Take a cool shower before bed
Most people like to shower in the morning but washing with cool water before bed can calm you for sleep.
Plus, it washes off all the pollen and that may help reduce allergies while you sleep.
Drink lots of water
Many people drink water throughout the day but won’t consume as much at night because they fear needing to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night.
That is a leftover childhood issue and shouldn’t be a problem for most adults. Staying hydrated will help you sleep.
Doing these few things will go a long way to inducing sleep during the summer months.
Since they are all free or affordable suggestions, it is worth a try.
