According to a study by RAND, the culture of today’s society where you work until you drop and get a badge of honor for working late and getting up early is costing us not only our health but employers $411 billion in productivity and about 1.23 million working days per year. Insufficient sleep has been deemed a public health problem by the CDC and linked to negative health effects. If you are lacking the Zs and in need of some ways to wind down the mental storm, try these sleep hacks.
Use Your Nose
Researchers have found evidence that certain scents may have an effect on your sleep. For example, lavender has been shown to lower one’s heart rate and calm the mind. Other scents such as vanilla and jasmine can also help you relax.
Sunshine Fun Time
Being locked up in an office all day isn’t fun for anyone. It’s time to go outside and soak up some sunlight. According to Livestrong the effects of sunlight and fresh air on the body can be rejuvenating and help you get some sleep.
Get a New Pillow
Buying a new mattress may not always be available in the budget today, but upgrading an old pillow is certainly more feasible. Overtime pillows acquire dust, dead skin cells and mold, they wear down and don’t support your head and neck. The Sleep Foundation recommends replacing your pillow every 18 months for health reasons. A good pillow can also help prevent against headaches or sore necks in the morning that could be effecting your productivity.
Hydrate
Regardless of the time of year, if your body is dehydrated, it can make you feel irritable or sluggish and effect your productivity.
Let it Go
Clearing your mind before you hit the pillow can help prevent against a restless night. If you’ve had a stressful day, set time aside before you go to bed to identify the root of your stress and figure out what you can and can’t control at the time. Journaling the problems could also be helpful to process one’s thoughts and solutions that you may have to address the next day. Read more hacks to get a better night sleep at TechCo
