How many of you are always tired? Ugh…I know I am! So today, my friend AJ’s giving us some advice on getting better sleep, because without good sleep, we’re all cranky humans, and that’s never a good thing.

Enjoy!

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A lot of people don’t get enough sleep these days, particularly because the 21st century has come with all sorts of new technologies and distractions that make it even harder than it was for our parents and grandparents to get sleep. Finding that perfect balance that allows you to get your 8 hours, feel rested, and still get things done, has become the holy grail of adult life. No joke. Getting adequate sleep goes hand in hand with our overall health, and it’s necessary for us if we want to be pleasant humans on a daily basis. So how do we get that sleep? Here are a few tips!

Turn Off Your Device

This has become a much more prevalent issue in the last decade since we keep coming up with more and more electronic devices that we keep with us 24/7. Why’s that so terrible? Well, anything with a digital display emits blue light that can hinder your ability to sleep by tricking your brain into thinking it’s still daytime. Not only can blue light disrupt your sleep patterns, but it can also have other dangerous health implications. Even your regular household light bulbs could be emitting blue light, so do some research and see if you can switch out bulbs in strategic areas to help you sleep better. And also, try and avoid exposure to blue light for a few hours before bedtime to help your brain get into sleep mode.

Invest In The Good Stuff

Many of us think that to buy high thread count sheets means living a life of luxury, but the reality is that it can drastically change the way you sleep. If you want to get some good zzz’s you need to be comfortable, so make your bedroom a place of tranquility, comfort and sleep.

Invest in a bed that gives you the support you need, buy comfy sheets and good pillows, and launder your bed linens regularly. Good blinds and thick curtains are also great if you live in an urban area or have a light right outside your window. The blinds will block incoming light and the curtains can help muffle the disruptive sounds from outside.

Make Your Bed About Sleep

You should avoid activities other than sleeping and sexy time in your bed. Try to reinforce the association that bedtime is sleep time. Nowadays it’s really common to wind up working on a laptop or winding down with some tv in bed, but doing these things will make it difficult for your brain to associate your bed with rest and relaxation.

When it comes to kids and pets, it really depends on you and your lifestyle. Some families benefit from co-sleeping, while others have issues with it. You know what’s right for you, just don’t let a cranky toddler rule your bed. Interesting fact: Up until recently it was thought that it was disruptive to let pets sleep in your bed, but recent research shows that sleeping with a pet can actually be beneficial to your sleep, especially if you’re alone.

End The Night With A Clean House

Having a messy space ruins your zen. Studies have shown that people who have cluttered spaces tend to have more sleep problems, so make sure that your room is organized and clutter free to help you reduce anxiety and get better sleep. Adding a quick nightly pickup to your bedtime routine is one easy way to ensure your space is as calming as possible before bed, and it’s totally doable.

There are a lot of cleaning and organization guides available online to help you keep on top of cleaning without it becoming overwhelming. A quick 15-minute pick-up each night is a perfect way to start!

Have A Routine

Although it may seem like something you only need to worry about with a 4 year old, having a routine as an adult is just as beneficial. If you’re constantly changing your sleep cycle, your body gets confused, and doesn’t know when it needs to be ready for action or when it’s time to settle down.

Be predictable if you want good sleep. Set a bedtime and wake up at the same time each day. Not only will it be easier for you to fall asleep, but it will also be easier to wake up.

Exercise

Exercising during the day is another thing that can drastically change the way your body functions. Adding daily exercise will help you to utilize your extra energy and create healthier brain cycles. Swimming, yoga and jogging are all good full-body workouts that are easy to do without instruction or a fancy gym membership.

It’s okay to exercise right before bed, but try to avoid anything too vigorous, especially if you’re prone to getting wound up. You’ll know what works best for you and your body, but either way, daily exercise is linked to more restful slumber.

Good Night!

By maintaining a routine and implementing some simple strategies, you may be well on your way to your best sleep yet! Keep in mind that all changes are gradual, and you have to give your body time to adjust to new habits. When all else fails, just slow down, take a deep breath, and relax. If you have any tips of your own, please feel free to share them in the comments.

AJ Earley is a personal chef, freelance writer, and root beer float enthusiast from Boise, Idaho.” Follow her on Twitter @ajvworld.

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• Blog, Inc.
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• How To Blog For Profit Without Selling Your Soul
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• Leave Your Mark: Land Your Dream Job, Kill It In Your Career, Rock Social Media
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Books to help you deal with your twenties: 

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• Generation Y Redefines Success
• How To Be Rich in Your Twenties
• The 5 Most Valuable Lessons Grad School Taught Me
• Pursue a Lifestyle, Not a Job
• Why It’s Okay to Be Excited About the Awesome Stuff You’re Doing
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• Don’t Wait, Be Happy Now
• The 5 Best Investments You Can Make in College

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