For a very long time I woke up tired almost daily. At first I put it down to busy schedules, long work hours, and stress. But as time went by I saw that the real issue was my bed and sleep environment which in fact were not what they should support for quality rest.
I learned that sleep quality depends heavily on comfort, temperature, and environment. Once I started improving these areas, I noticed a major difference in how rested and refreshed I felt. Here are five simple steps that helped me choose the perfect bed and improve my sleep quality.
Step 1: Prioritize Immediate Comfort and Softness
When I choose a bed or bedding out of what I am presented with I pay attention first to the feel. I don’t buy into the idea that great bedding breaks in. What I have found is that truly high quality bedding is that which is soft, smooth and comfortable at first touch.
I have noticed that my body reacts right away to the texture and how a material feels. If the bedding is rough, stiff, or just so-so’ I have a hard time relaxing.
Through the years I began to pay more attention to what the first touch was like, it really raised the bar for me.
Step 2: Control Nighttime Temperature
One thing I found out is that what causes us to overheat at night is usually the type of bedding we use which is poor at breathing in rather than the room temperature which may be lower. This is why I began to use materials like that which are derived from bamboo.
These changes we saw in materials which improved air flow, absorbed moisture, and which also very well regulate body temp. What I noticed since we made this switch is that I get less interrupted at night and also very well.
Step 3: Build a Relaxing Sleep Environment
I think a good night’s sleep isn’t a given with just a comfortable bed. The setting of the room also plays a large role in how fast I fall asleep.
I found that I started to form routines at night like dimming the lights, reducing noise, and setting a calm atmosphere with cozy candles that create a calm home feel.
Soft lighting and cozy candles which I used to put in place signaled to my brain that the active part of the day was drawing to a close. Also over time I ended up associating my bedroom more with relaxation and rest through the use of those same routines.
Step 4: Layer Bedding with Intention
I used to think bedding pieces were separate items that didn’t matter much together. But eventually, I realized that quality sleep comes from how all the layers work as a complete set.
Instead of randomly mixing sheets, blankets, and comforters, I now make sure each piece complements the others in texture, softness, and weight.
Step 5: Choose Quality and Long-Term Value
I learned to put less focus on price and more on quality, craft and durability. In the past I used to base my decisions almost solely on cost, which I regret. What I found is that cheap products generally require more frequent replacement.
At present, before purchasing bedding items I ask myself:
Who created this product?
What materials were used?
How much time do we have for it?
Since sleep is a key element of everyday living, I think the elements we put in our bedroom play a large role in long term health and well-being. From my experience products which are thought out and of high quality consistently offer better comfort, durability, and satisfaction.
FAQ
What does softness do for sleep?
From what I have experienced, softness is key in helping the body relax. Also do that comfortable bedding which in turn signals to the nervous system that it is time for rest and let go.
Why does bamboo fabric feel cooler?
I have found out that bamboo based fabrics are breathable. They release heat instead of holding it in which in turn improves sleep temperature.
Why do nighttime routines improve sleep?
I have routines which include dimming the lights and setting a calm atmosphere to help train the brain what sleep time is. Over time this makes it much easier and more natural to fall asleep.
