What Is Sleep Hygiene?

 7. Unplug an Hour Before Bed

A cell phone wearing an eyemask and nightcap

Sleep and technology generally aren’t the best combo. It’s important to avoid blue light at least one hour before bed. Exposure to this type of light can affect your circadian rhythm. It can also lower your natural melatonin levels — negatively affecting sleep quality. Make a rule in your household to shut off (or silence) all electronics before bed and wind down with a relaxing activity, such as reading or meditation.

8. Reserve the Bedroom for Sleep and Intimacy

A bedroom handle with a 'do not disturb' sign hanging from it.

Participating in activities other than sleep and intimacy in the bedroom can cause your mind to associate those things with sleep. For example, if your work from home office is really your bed, your mind may start to travel to thoughts of work when you’re trying to sleep. This can lead to feelings of stress and anxiety. To combat this, reserve the bedroom for sleep and intimacy only — you want your mind to know that when you lay in bed, it means it’s time to sleep.