How to Improve your Sleep in Colder Temperatures

Stay Active During the Day

Exercise Regularly

Engaging in regular physical activity such as moderate to vigorous exercise can significantly enhance your sleep quality by reducing the time it takes to fall asleep and decreasing the likelihood of waking up during the night.

Consistent exercise routines have been shown to alleviate daytime sleepiness and potentially reduce the need for sleep medications.

Incorporating regular physical activities like walking or yoga can also help manage weight, which is crucial as excessive weight gain is linked to sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea.

Take Morning Walks and Expose Yourself to Daylight

Starting your day with a morning walk can set a positive tone for the rest of the day, providing both mental and physical benefits.

Exposure to morning sunlight during your walk can help regulate your body’s circadian rhythm, making it easier to wake up and promoting better sleep quality at night. Even on cloudy days, natural light has beneficial effects, so make an effort to spend time outdoors or near windows to catch as much light as possible.

Walking not only boosts physical health by improving circulation and aiding joint health but also enhances mental well-being, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety .
For those who spend most of their time indoors, consider arranging your workspace near a source of natural light to maintain your energy levels and support your sleep-wake cycle.

Maintain Healthy Eating Habits

Avoid Heavy Meals Before Bed

To ensure better sleep in winter, avoid consuming heavy meals close to bedtime. Large or fatty meals can lead to discomfort and indigestion, which may disrupt your sleep. Try to finish eating at least 2-3 hours before you plan to sleep. Specifically, avoid foods high in fat such as fried items, as they are harder to digest and may cause acid reflux. Additionally, spicy foods should be avoided before bed to prevent digestive issues that can interfere with sleep.

Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration is essential for good sleep, but timing is key. Drink plenty of water throughout the day,but reduce your intake before bedtime to minimise trips to the bathroom at night. Include hydrating foods in your diet, such as fruits and vegetables with high water content like watermelon, oranges, and cucumbers. However, be cautious with beverages that can increase urination and dehydration, such as caffeine and alcohol, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime.

Consume Sleep-Promoting Foods

Incorporating foods that aid sleep can significantly improve your sleep quality. Foods rich in melatonin, such as nuts and cherries, can help regulate your sleep cycle. Kiwifruit and tart cherry juice are also known for their sleep benefits; consuming these before bedtime can help you fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly. Additionally, consider light snacks that are easy to digest if you need to eat before bed. Options include yogurt, bananas, and whole-grain toast, which are known to support sleep due to their content of sleep-inducing nutrients like tryptophan and magnesium.

Limit Stimulants Before Bed

Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol

• To enhance your sleep quality, it’s crucial to avoid caffeine at least 8 hours before bedtime as it can linger in your system and disrupt your sleep by making it harder to fall asleep and causing more frequent awakenings during the night.

• Limit your caffeine intake to no more than 200mg per day if you’re experiencing sleep difficulties. Consider eliminating caffeinated products after lunch to ensure it does not affect your sleep.

• Alcohol, while seemingly sedative initially, can significantly disrupt your sleep later in the night. It is advisable to avoid alcohol for at least three to four hours before bedtime to prevent sleep disturbances such as frequent awakenings and a decrease in sleep quality.

Turn Off Screens Early

• Minimise exposure to blue light from screens as it can suppress melatonin production, which is crucial for regulating your sleep-wake cycle. Aim to turn off electronic devices at least an hour before bedtime.

• Engage in a digital detox by keeping all screens out of the bedroom to help signal to your brain that it is time to wind down and prepare for sleep.

• If you must use a device before bed, consider settings that reduce blue light exposure or use blue-light filtering glasses to minimize the impact on your sleep.

Engage in Relaxing Activities

• Replace evening screen time with calming activities that promote relaxation such as reading a book, listening to soothing music, or practicing meditation.

• Consider incorporating relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises or progressive muscle relaxation to help unwind before bed. These practices can significantly improve your sleep quality by reducing stress and anxiety.

• Establish a pre-sleep routine that includes activities like taking a warm bath or shower to help your body ease into sleep mode more comfortably.

Use Tools to Improve Sleep Quality

Humidifiers for Dry Air

• Benefits of Humidifiers: Using a humidifier can alleviate various discomforts caused by dry winter air, enhancing your sleep quality. By maintaining optimal humidity levels between 30% and 50%, you can prevent issues such as dry skin, eye irritation, and respiratory problems.

• Choosing the Right Humidifier: For children’s rooms, cool mist or ultrasonic humidifiers are recommended to avoid risks associated with hot steam. However, it is crucial to keep these humidifiers clean to prevent the spread of bacteria and minerals.

• Placement and Maintenance: Place your humidifier about six feet away from your bed and near an air vent for effective air circulation. Regular cleaning and using distilled water can help minimize germ buildup and maintain efficiency.

Invest in a Good Mattress

• Mattress Selection: Choosing the right mattress is crucial for good sleep, especially if you suffer from back pain. Depending on your sleeping position, you may require a firm, medium, or soft mattress to provide the necessary support and comfort.