The importance of better sleep.

Quality sleep is increasingly important for our overall health and well-being as we age and it’s particularly important when going through a life transition such as relocating.

Research shows adequate sleep can extend your lifespan and improve the quality of our later years. A lack of proper sleep has also been linked to chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, obesity, depression, and even dementia.

To ensure better sleep, incorporating simple habits into your daily routine is key. Here are eight easy habits to help you achieve a restful night’s sleep from senior relocation company Caring Transitions:

  1. Get Sunlight Exposure: Spend a few minutes in natural light daily to regulate your body’s rhythms.
  2. Eat Lightly: Choose lighter meals in the evening to aid digestion and consider melatonin-rich snacks like cherries or nuts for a pre-bedtime snack.
  3. Establish Evening Rituals: Wind down with calming activities such as meditation or herbal tea, avoiding alcohol which can disrupt sleep.
  4. Maintain a Consistent Sleep Schedule: Aim for regular sleep and wake times to regulate your internal clock.
  5. Limit Screen Time: Power down electronic devices at least two hours before bedtime to reduce exposure to blue light. Reduce the urge to check your phone before bed.
  6. Exercise Early: Engage in physical activity earlier in the day to promote relaxation in the evening. Take a walk in the morning.
  7. Optimize Your Sleep Environment: Keep your bedroom dark and maintain a comfortable temperature for optimal sleep conditions.
  8. Consider Napping: If you miss out on sleep, opt for a nap rather than altering your bedtime.

>>Click here to read more from Caring Transitions of Northeast Atlanta including how they can help reduce stress when your family needs to downsize, pack and move.