Are you tired of feeling tired all the time? Do you feel like no matter how much you sleep, your brain never truly rests? It’s time to talk about sleep quality.
In Nigeria, we love to work hard and play harder. But what happens when we don’t give our bodies the rest they need? Poor sleep quality can lead to a variety of health issues, from obesity to anxiety.
Studies have shown that not getting enough sleep can lead to a whole host of health problems, including weight gain, diabetes, heart disease, and depression. On the other hand, sleeping soundly for 7-9 hours a night can boost our immune system, increase our creativity and productivity, and even help us live longer.
So, how can we improve the quality of our sleep and wake up feeling refreshed?
- Establishing a sleeping schedule
First and foremost, we need to establish a consistent sleep schedule. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends, can help regulate our natural sleep cycle and improve the quality of our sleep. We should also create a relaxing sleep environment by keeping our bedroom cool, dark, and quiet, and investing in a comfortable mattress and pillow.
- Practising healthy sleeping habits
In addition to these environmental factors, we can also practise healthy sleep habits by limiting caffeine and alcohol consumption, turning off screens (including smartphones) at least 30 minutes before bedtime, and engaging in calming activities such as reading, meditation, or a warm bath.
- Opting for effective natural remedies
If we still struggle with falling or staying asleep, there are plenty of natural remedies we can try. Drinking a cup of chamomile tea, using essential oils such as lavender, or taking a warm bath with Epsom salts can all help promote relaxation and sleepiness. In some cases, we may also benefit from speaking with our healthcare provider about potential underlying sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome.
Ultimately, prioritising our sleep quality is an investment in our physical and mental well-being. As Africans, let’s take charge of our sleep hygiene and wake up feeling rested, refreshed, and ready to take on the day.