A good night’s sleep no longer just depends on having a comfortable bed and set of pillows, especially now that there are more available options to improve sleep quality.
For instance, wearable technology such as sleep trackers has helped more Americans to monitor how much they sleep overnight. In fact, an estimated 10% of adults in 2018 used this device while asleep. However, the efficiency of wearable devices can sometimes be a double-edged sword. While it allows you to be aware of your sleep levels, it may cause unwanted stress when the target hours of sleep aren’t met regularly.
How Bedroom Design Changes Everything
Instead of spending hundreds of dollars on a modern gadget, it’s wiser to use that money improving the design of your bedroom.
If you work at night and sleep during the day, you could invest in thick curtains that block sunlight. You could also buy bamboo sheets that are not only aesthetically appealing, but also helps in regulating temperature. If you often find yourself waking up in the middle of the night either because it’s too hot or cold, then using these sheets are a good option.
Beddings could be only a part of the problem, as your choice of a bed will be the single biggest factor for a deep sleep. Consider replacing the old one with a high-quality mattress placed on a platform base. You could use a storage bed frame to move the items from your bedside drawer, which should be free from clutter.
If replacing a bed isn’t part of your budget, replace your bedside lamp instead. It should give off a soft, relaxing color while reading a book to help you fall asleep. Those who are still keen on buying sleep trackers should know the implications before making a purchase.
Pros and Cons of Wearables
Sleep trackers aren’t inherently bad when you are aware of how to interpret the data. Some experts dispute that there is no accurate way of measuring the quality of a person’s sleep, although it still provides them with an idea on how they could improve bedtime rest. Disciplined people could use this technology to know when and how much they need to sleep, but this isn’t for those who already struggle with anxiety and obsessive-compulsive behavior.
For instance, missing your target hours every night may cause some people to become agitated after waking up. If you’re not careful with how you analyze this information, you could develop the so-called orthosomnia. A study in 2017 invented the term to define individuals who have become obsessed with quality and hours of sleep. Hence, using sleep trackers could be just as harmful as taking sleeping pills.
We spend around one-third of our lives lying in bed, which means that getting enough rest is just as important as being physically active. Don’t be swayed into buying the latest devices that claim to help you fall asleep easily. Instead, focus on the basics like having high-quality sheets and other bedding products.
