Woman sleeping while studying messing up her sleep pattern.

Top Items That Can Quickly Fix Your Sleeping Patterns

January 31, 2023
Healthy Sleep

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Having trouble sleeping? You’re not alone. You need to fix your sleeping patterns. Trouble getting to sleep and having a good quality of sleep are common problems that can be caused by stress, an unhealthy lifestyle, or even long-term medical conditions. Fortunately, there is a range of items that can help quickly fix your sleeping patterns so you can get the restful night’s sleep you need. Read on to learn about the top items that can help you get your healthy sleeping habits back on track. 

1. A Quality Mattress

A quality mattress is one of the most important items for a good night’s sleep and to fix sleeping patterns. A comfortable bed can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. It’s also essential to choose a mattress that fits your body type; if it’s too firm, it may lead to back pain or aches, and if it’s too soft, you may wake up feeling sore or stiff. Look for mattresses with different levels of support depending on weight, age, sleep position, and other factors—it’s worth investing in a higher-quality mattress as it will last much longer than bargain models. As Vesper professionals note, a good bed is worth its weight in gold. Sometimes, an old or worn-out mattress is really to blame for your sleep issues—so if you’re having trouble sleeping, it may be time to upgrade your mattress and box spring.

2. The Right Pillow

Having the right pillow is just as crucial as having the right mattress. Did you know that a pillow takes up 20 percent of your current sleeping surface and supports one of the most important parts of your body? Pillows provide neck support and help keep your body in the correct position while you sleep. If your pillow is too soft, it won’t provide enough support for your neck, leading to discomfort and restless nights. On the other hand, if it’s too firm, it may push your head up at an unnatural angle—causing pain in your shoulders or lower back. To find the right pillow for you, consider factors such as size, shape, and fill material. A combination of memory foam and down feathers will provide both comfort and support which can help alleviate any tension in your neck or spine throughout the night.

A young woman sleeping on the wrong pillow. Fix Your Sleeping Patterns.

3. Blackout Curtains

Bright light can disrupt our circadian rhythms—interfering with sleep and making it difficult to drift off at night. Blackout curtains are designed to block out light, reducing distractions and allowing you to fall asleep more easily. They also keep the room cool and dark—creating an optimal environment for sleeping. Look for thick enough curtains to completely cover your windows; if they’re too thin, they won’t be able to do their job properly. You can even choose blackout curtains with extra features such as thermal insulation or soundproofing, which can help further improve sleep quality.

4. A White Noise Machine

White noise machines create a soothing background sound—such as rainfall or ocean waves—which can help reduce external noise and make it easier to fall asleep. White noise helps to create a consistent level of sound, which can be especially helpful if you’re sensitive to outside noises like traffic or barking dogs. High-quality white noise machines are available in different sizes and styles; some even come with features such as timers and adjustable volume levels. It’s worth investing in a good quality machine that will provide deep and consistent sound to help you get the restful sleep you need.

5. Essential Oils

Essential oils can be used to create a calming atmosphere—helping ease stress, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation before bedtime. Popular essential oil blends for sleep include lavender, chamomile, ylang-ylang, bergamot, frankincense, sandalwood, and valerian. You can use a diffuser to disperse the scent of essential oils around your bedroom, or simply add a few drops to your pillowcase. People have been using aromatherapy for centuries to improve their sleeping habits—so why not give it a try?

6. A Bedtime Routine

A regular bedtime routine can make a big difference to your sleep quality. Try to establish a consistent pattern of winding down before going to bed—including activities such as reading, drinking calming herbal teas, or taking a warm bath. This will help your body recognize its time for sleep, making it easier for you to drift off when the time comes. Avoid using electronic devices in the hours leading up to bedtime, as the blue light emitted from screens can interfere with melatonin production and disrupt your circadian rhythm. Taking some time out for yourself each evening is also important; try meditating or journaling if you need some extra downtime.

Brushing teeth as part of a bedtime routine.

7. Eliminate Caffeine

Caffeine can be a major disruptor of sleep, so if you’re struggling to get the rest you need, it may be time to cut back on your intake. Try switching out coffee for decaf versions, or opt for herbal teas such as chamomile or valerian root which are known for their calming effects. Avoid consuming any caffeine after midday; even small amounts can interfere with your body clock and make it harder to fall asleep when the time comes. 

8. Exercise Regularly

Exercising daily is one of the best ways to improve your sleep quality. Regular physical activity helps to regulate your circadian rhythm, as well as reduce stress and anxiety levels which can interfere with sleep. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise each day—such as walking, jogging, or cycling—which will help you drift off more easily when it’s time for bed. Just make sure to avoid any high-intensity workouts in the hours before you go to sleep; these can act as stimulants and keep you awake. 

9. Eat The Right Foods

Eating a balanced diet is important for sleep health, as certain foods can increase drowsiness and help you drift off more easily. Complex carbohydrates such as brown rice, oats, and quinoa are good sources of energy that also promote relaxation; while magnesium-rich foods like leafy greens, nuts, and seeds can help reduce stress levels before bedtime. Avoid eating anything too heavy or spicy too close to your bedtime

10. Get Outside

Getting enough natural light during the day helps to regulate your circadian rhythm, so make sure to spend some time outdoors each day—whether it’s heading out for a walk or simply sitting in the garden for a little while. Natural light sends signals to your brain that it’s time to be awake and alert, while darkness acts as a cue for your body that it’s time for bed. If you struggle to get out during the day, try opening your curtains or blinds first thing in the morning to let natural light into your bedroom. 

Why Is Sleep So Important?

Sleep is incredibly important for our physical and mental health; not getting enough quality sleep can have serious consequences on our well-being. During sleep, our bodies can repair themselves and restore energy levels, while the brain processes information we’ve taken in during the day and consolidates memories. Lack of quality sleep can interfere with these processes, leading to increased stress levels, difficulty concentrating, impaired memory weakened immunity and a higher risk of developing chronic illnesses such as obesity and diabetes. It’s therefore vital to get good-quality sleep every night—so if your sleeping pattern needs some work, try out some of these tips!

A grandfather holding his sleeping grandson.

If You’re Having Trouble Sleeping, These Five Items May Help You Get Back On Track

  • Investing In Quality Products Such As Mattresses
  • Pillows
  • Curtains
  • White Noise Machines
  • Essential Oils

These can make all the difference when it comes to improving sleep quality and fixing your sleeping patterns. Ultimately giving you the restful night’s sleep you deserve. With the right combination of items and practices in place, you should be well on your way toward improved sleep health. Good luck!

Contact STL Beds Now

You can also contact us by filling out the form below. Make sure to fill in as many fields as possible so we can respond to you with the most accurate information!