It’s almost finals time, and we’re all feeling worn down and tired. Here are some tips to get better sleep so you can be refreshed when you take your final exams.
One way to get more restful sleep is to create a restful environment. Get rid of the clutter, make your bed and try to keep your room as cool and as dark as possible. Those flashing lights on your electronics seem like little, insignificant things, but they can make is harder for you to get to sleep. Try to cover them up as much as possible. Also, try and keep noise levels at a minimum. I know you don’t have control of your neighbors’ blaring music at 2 am, but falling asleep listening to music or the television will hinder your mind’s ability to rest.
Try and create a bed time routine. Have your own relaxation ritual that you do every night before bed. This will alert your body, telling it that it’s time to wind down and sleep. Take a warm shower, read or listen to relaxing music. Avoid watching television or being on the computer. The screens will over stimulate your brain and will make it harder for you to fall asleep.
Create a sleep schedule. Do your best to go to bed and get up at the same time every day. This will allow your body to get into a routine. If you want more deep sleep, try getting up early. Getting up at five or six every day will allow you to fall asleep earlier and have deeper sleep.
Lastly, watch what you eat and drink. Try to finish eating two or three hours before you go to bed. Going to bed too hungry or too full can impair your ability to go to sleep. Drink too much before bed, and you’re more likely to wake up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom. This doesn’t make for a restful night’s sleep!
Follow these simple tips to be well rested and ready to take on your final exams. What’s your nighttime relaxation ritual? Tell us in the comments below.