Trouble sleeping? Get better sleep by understanding sleep better

By Zuko Komisa

We’ve all heard that sleep and a good laugh solves almost every problem under the sun, but what do we know about it? How do we get more of the right kind of sleep?

Common things that happen when you are sleeping?

Apart from the occasional snoring, there have been numerous studies that have been done to understand the activities that happen psychologically during sleep. Here are a few we found very interesting:

Falling sensation: You get these as a physical reaction that sometimes wakes you up. These are mainly caused by exhaustion and lack of sleep, your brain goes into sleep mode as soon as you touch the pillow while your body is awake causing this reaction.

Sleep Paralysis: This is usually the freakiest feeling of them all, usually happens when you are sleeping on your back, in uncomfortable and unfamiliar environments. This feels like someone is sitting on top of you and you can’t move. This usually happens when you are falling asleep or waking up when your body is still sleeping and your brain is not. 5-8% of people have had this sensation at least once in their lifetime. To avoid this feeling attempt sticking to your sleeping schedule.

Sleep Talking and Walking: Usually happens within the first 2 hours of falling asleep while the body is already in the deep phase sleep. People who experience this tend to do random activities or have conversations while in this state.

Recurring Dreams: These are usually colorful dreams you remember when you get up that happen over and over again. These have been said to be important as, according to some schools of thought, they warn us of unfinished business we must address or real incidents we are ignoring or a problem we have not yet to solve.

A fountain of youth: Many studies have proven that the right amount of sleep is a large contributor to how well you age. Sleeping recharges your body, during your sleep your body rejuvenates itself, body tissues get renewed, your metabolism increases and toxins are removed.

Tips for better sleep

With all this said, there are a number of sleeping habits that could have a massive contribution to the quality of your sleep this year. Try these for a consistent blissful night sleep.

Know your body clock: Stick to a sleep schedule of the same bedtime and wake up time, even on the weekends to regulate your body’s clock.

Develop a unique bedtime ritual. A relaxing, routine activity right before bedtime conducted away from bright lights goes a long way, also avoid being of your phone as the bright light from it causes your brain to take longer to switch off.

Exercising daily: even the lightest exercise is better than no activity. Your body needs it for the energy you burn when you sleep. It also helps you have a more peaceful sleep.

Be mindful of your room: the way your bedroom looks largely affects the quality of your sleep. Your bedroom should be cool, free from any noise that can disturb your sleep and free from any light.

Your Mattress Matters: Make sure you sleep on a comfortable mattress and pillows that are comfortable and supportive

Written by: Zuko

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