How to Improve Your Sleep for Better Health

There’s nothing like a good night’s sleep. It restores your body and your mind and leaves you feeling refreshed and ready to tackle whatever life has in store.

Quality sleep is essential for your overall health. But all too often, people struggle with sleep-related issues that limit their quality of life. At Better Health Management, we’re dedicated to changing that.

Our team specializes in men’s and women’s health, and we work with adults of all ages to help them improve their sleep for better health. Here’s why sleep is so important and what you can start doing today to get better sleep.

Why quality sleep matters

When it comes to your overall health, the importance of good quality sleep can’t be overstated. Your body undergoes processes that promote healing, repair tissues, and consolidate memories while you sleep, and that means quality sleep is vital for your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Along with rejuvenating your body, sleep plays a key role in other functions, like regulating hormone production and maintaining your immune system. Adequate, restful sleep helps enhance your mood, improve concentration, boost creativity, and increase productivity.

On the other hand, consistent poor sleep can have a negative impact on your health. Lack of sleep contributes to a range of health issues, like increased risk of chronic diseases and mood disorders like depression.

Practical tips to get better sleep

You know you need quality sleep, but it’s easy to let other things take priority. One in three American adults don’t get enough sleep each night, and if that’s you, it’s time to make some changes.

Establish a consistent sleep schedule

Go to bed and wake up around the same time every day, even on your days off. Regular sleep and wake times help regulate your body's internal clock and promote a healthier sleep pattern.

Create a relaxing sleep environment

Make sure going to bed is relaxing. Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet, and invest in a comfortable mattress, pillows, and breathable bedding.

Develop a relaxing routine before bed to signal to your body that it's time to wind down. Choose activities you enjoy, like reading, taking a warm bath, or listening to calming music.

Limit electronic device use before bed

Phones, tablets, laptops, and TVs emit blue light that can interfere with your body’s internal clock. Limit screen time at least one hour before bed, or use blue light filters or night mode settings on your devices.

Avoid stimulants and heavy meals

Limit consumption of caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol, especially in the evening. Avoid heavy meals close to bedtime, because your digestive process can disrupt sleep.

Get regular exercise

Engaging in regular physical activity can improve sleep quality, but exercise at the right time of day. Exercising too close to bedtime can stimulate your body and actually make it harder to fall asleep.

When to go to the doctor for sleep problems

Implementing healthy sleep habits can go a long way in improving your quality of sleep, but certain issues warrant professional medical care. Schedule an appointment with us at Better Health Management if you have symptoms like:

• Consistent trouble falling or staying asleep
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Loud snoring
• Breathing pauses during sleep
• Chronic fatigue

We can do a physical exam, review your sleep patterns, and order a sleep study, if necessary, to provide appropriate guidance.

When you’re striving to achieve optimal health, don’t overlook the importance of quality sleep. Get personalized tips to help you improve your sleep with an appointment at Better Health Management in the Financial District of lower Manhattan, New York City.

Call us at 332-237-4647 or book an appointment online now.