March 10, 2025

Sleep Awareness Week is celebrated annually to promote awareness of sleep health and emphasize its importance for overall well-being. Sleep habits have a significant impact on mental and physical health.

Sleep deprivation can negatively affect health by impairing attention, alertness, concentration, and problem-solving abilities. For individual safety and the safety of others, it’s essential to prioritize rest and establish a healthy routine that prepares your body for success.

Consider these five tips when it comes to sleep health:

Stick to a routine

As tempting as it seems to sleep in on the weekend, it’s essential to go to bed and get up at the same time every day to build a consistent sleep-wake schedule. Following a regular bedtime routine helps signal your body that it’s time to slow down and prepare to sleep.

Limit caffeine intake

Ever drink caffeine late in the day? Those mid-afternoon caffeine pick-me-ups can take hours to wear off and can interfere with your sleep. It’s best to avoid caffeine six to eight hours before bedtime.

Create a restful environment

The best sleep environments are dark, cool, and quiet. Limit your exposure to light-emitting screens before bedtime to create a healthy sleep setting that fits your body’s needs!

Manage stress

Stress and lack of sleep go hand in hand. Lack of sleep can cause the body to react if in distress, releasing more of the stress hormone cortisol. To help reduce worries before bedtime, try relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing!

Release physical tension

Incorporate a short stretching or gentle yoga routine into your evening to help with tension. Stretching can help your body relax and wind down for the night.

Incorporating these tips into your routine can improve your sleep quality and enhance your overall health!