Whether you're moving into a new home or just updating your current one, you'll want to pay special consideration to your bedroom. It's estimated that you will spend up to a third of your life sleeping and how you decorate may determine how much sleep you actually get. Here are some steps that you can take to turn your bedroom into a perfect sanctuary.
COLOR
A bedroom painted with too bold of color can keep you awake at night. Keep the walls in soft neutrals. Some good colors include soft greens and blues or warm browns and creams. If you absolutely need that pop of color, try some brightly colored pillows or accents in the room. As a bonus, lighter shades can make a small bedroom appear larger and more airy.
UPGRADE BEDDING
Your old sheets and duvet set may actually be preventing you from getting a good night sleep. Synthetic sheets can trap heat, which could potentially lead to overheating making it harder to fall asleep. Instead, go with cotton sheets which are softer, hypoallergenic, and stay cooler. Before using your new sheets, try to wash them at least twice to remove any irritants from the packaging. If you have sensitive skin, use detergent that is hypoallergenic and dye-free.
LIGHT
A great option for a bedroom is a dimmer switch or bedside lamp. Bright lights stimulate your brain saying it’s time to wake up, making it harder to fall asleep. Start reducing the use of electronics about 30 minutes before you go to bed. This includes television, tablets, and smart phones. If you like to read before bed, opt for an actual book instead of an electronic reader.
MATTRESS
If you live to 90 years old, you will have spent the equivalent of 30 years sleeping. Despite this, many people still find themselves tossing and turning because of, a fairly simple fix, an old mattress. While many cite money as the reason why they keep a mattress way past its prime, making room in the budget for a new one has several long-term benefits. For example, those who get a better night’s sleep enjoy decreased pain, less stress, and a better mood.
SCENTS & SOUNDS
Even while you are asleep, your mind registers sounds, like a dog barking or car door slamming, disrupting your REM cycle. Adding a source of white noise can help drown out these noises giving you a more peaceful night’s rest. The scent of lavender also can put you into a more relaxed state, making it easier to fall asleep. An oil diffuser is a great way to add a lavender scent to your room without the risk of an open flame candle.
