Sleep hygiene
- 08 Dec 2023
- 1 Minute to read
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Sleep hygiene
- Updated on 08 Dec 2023
- 1 Minute to read
- Print
- PDF
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SLEEP HYGIENE TIPS:
Create a comfortable sleep environment. | Not too hot, cold, noisy or bright. No use of devices before bedtime for 2 hours. Bright lights should be avoided. The blue light on electronic devices can suppress melatonin. The bedroom should exclusively be used for sleep and intimacy. |
Keep to regular sleep schedules. | Avoid day time napping. Avoid going to bed too early. Rise at the same time each day including weekends. |
Relax before bed. | Reading. Taking a bath. Mindfulness. |
Avoid ruminating in bed. | Checking or watching the clock throughout the night should be avoided. Visual imagery in bed can help with racing thoughts. |
Limit caffeine. | Avoid after midday. |
Limit nicotine. | |
Minimise alcohol. | The recommended alcohol intake is <14 units per week. |
Exercise. | Helpful if undertaken earlier in the day but not within 4 hours of bedtime. |
CBT. | Practice CBT for insomnia. Various apps are available. An example is the SLEEPIO app. |
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