Westshore Blog

Sleep—so important but not always so easy. If you’re struggling to get some shut eye or you’re stuck sleeping next to someone whose tossing and turning is keeping you up at night, it might be time to make a few changes, and get a better night’s rest.

• Be consistent
  When it comes to catching all the z’s you can, consistency is key. Aim to go to bed at the same time each night and give yourself the time to wind down before you sleep. Whether you’re into a multi-step skincare regimen, want to stretch and hold a few yoga poses, or prefer to plan for the next day, carve out some me time, establish a routine that works for you, and stick with it before you hit the hay.

• Avoid screen time
  We’ve all been there: you can’t sleep so you turn on the TV or scroll through your phone. Before you know it, you’re binge-watching Netflix or scrolling through hundreds of Instagram pics. While it might seem like a relaxing activity, staring at screens before bed can not only stimulate you, but the blue light emitted from screens may suppress your melatonin levels—the chemical that makes you tired. Avoid temptation and use bedtime as an opportunity to put your electronics on their chargers—and leave them there.
• Upgrade your essentials
  When was the last time you bought a new pillow? Replacing, refreshing, and updating your bedding not only makes your room more inviting, but can help you get to sleep, too. Always too hot? Why not try a cooling blanket to help you from overheating in the middle of the night! Waking up with a stiff neck? You might be using the wrong pillow. Pillows not only come in a variety of materials and densities but are also intended for different sleep positions. Visit QE Home and invest in a new pillow tailored to how you sleep and then get cozy and head to dreamland.

• Get up if you have to
  Sometimes, you just can’t sleep. And that’s okay! If sleep just isn’t happening, get up and spend a few minutes outside of the bedroom reading, watching a show, doodling, or journaling. Keep your bedroom a quiet, dark place reserved for sleep and settle in once you’re tired.

We spend an average of one third of our lives asleep—why not enjoy it?