Sleep Expert Offers Sleep Tips to Combat Stressors from a Tough Economy Research shows Americans are only getting six or seven hours of sleep each night - not the medically recommended eight hours of sleep they need to perform during the day. And with a recent Sealy survey finding that 98 percent of people are feeling frustrated or worried about the slow economy, getting a sufficient night's rest is even more difficult.
Dr. Carol Ash, medical director of Sleep for Life, Inc. says outside stressors like the economy, work and family schedules are the main reasons many people aren't getting eight hours of sleep at night. And when eight hours isn't possible, it's important to maximize the sleep you do get to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Quality sleep improves concentration, increases memory function and helps reduce stress, while keeping diabetes and high blood pressure at bay.
Here are a few expert tips to help maximize sleep:
- Keep it cool. Your body will ease into a sounder sleep in a cooler environment.
- Determine whether you need your mattress changed. A quality mattress provides pressure relief and support.
- Darken your space. Use room darkening shades to limit morning sun or other sleep disrupting light.
- Eliminate noise. This includes keeping pets out of your room, turning off the television and closing windows and doors.
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