If you find yourself scrolling through your phone before bed, you might want to stop. The light emitted from the screen hugely interrupts sleep cycles, especially if you wake up during the night and reach for your phone. Try not to look at your phone during the hour before bed and read a book instead.
2. Anxious Feelings
If you’re anxious or feeling stressed about something going on in your life, your mind is moving a mile a minute. It’s hard to shut your brain and body down when you’re experiencing these feelings, which will make sleep extremely difficult. Try practicing meditation or thinking calm, relaxing thoughts before bed.
3. Frequent Bathroom Visits
Your body will often wake you up if you feel the urge to urinate during the night. Once you get up and visit the washroom, it can be pretty tough to get back to sleep afterwards. Try limiting your liquid intake in the hour or so before bed, and ensure you go to the washroom right before you’re ready to hit the hay.
4. Excess Caffeine
Caffeine can stay in your system for many hours, making it pretty hard to fall and stay asleep. Try not to have any coffee or other caffeinated beverages past 2 p.m. to prevent this.
5. Excess Alcohol
Although alcohol may help you fall asleep quickly, it’s horrible for staying asleep. Alcohol hugely impacts your REM sleep cycle, and will likely cause you to wake up multiple times throughout the night. Simply avoid drinking in excess if you want a good night’s sleep!
6. Insomnia
Insomnia can be a chronic condition that makes it nearly impossible to fall or stay asleep. Try to get on a regular sleep cycle; routine generally helps with insomnia. However, if nothing seems to be working, consult with your doctor about possible solutions.