The warm weather is very much appreciated throughout the day, but when it comes to getting to sleep it’s not so welcome. The temperature of our bodies not only impacts how easy it is to get to sleep but also the quality of our sleep. So, how do we get to sleep when it’s hot?
Stay hydrated
Drinking a glass of cold water before bed keeps you hydrated and gives your body a good store to replenish any water loss from sweat.
Distance makes the heart grow fonder
If you’re sleeping too closely to your partner, you’ll share body temperatures and hold the heat between you for much longer. This makes it harder for your body temperature to drop the idyllic number needed for a better night’s sleep. Therefore, it’s best to keep your distance from your partner (and any pets!)
Open the windows/get a fan
Most houses in the UK weren’t built for high temperatures, so we need to take extra measures to ensure you’re cool enough to sleep (unless you benefit from air conditioning).
We’d advise leaving a window open at night to let in fresh air, keep the temperature down, and prevent your room from feeling stuffy – please do take adequate care in terms of security if you decide to leave any windows open.
If you’re not comfortable with leaving windows open, invest in a fan. Fans help to generate a breeze and keep air gently moving around the room, some fans also have a timer option if you’re concerned about leaving one all night.
Invest in your mattress
Not only is a good quality mattress vital for your posture and sleep quality but also for dissipating your body heat. If your mattress isn’t spreading your bodyweight very well then it won’t do such a great job of spreading your body heat either.
Use breathable bedding
Store the polyester, silk, and satin for the colder months. You need some lightweight cotton, linen, or bamboo fibres, as they won’t trap your body heat, allowing you to feel more cool and comfortable as you go to sleep. The same advice applies to the material of your pyjamas too.
And freeze the sheets
Pop your sheets in a bag, set a five minute timer and put them in your freezer. As odd as it may sound, it does offer some temporary relief as you head to bed. If you’re not keen on making the bed right before bed, then just put your pillow cases in there!
Have a warm shower
I know what you’re thinking, why wouldn’t you have a cold shower if you’re feeling hot? A warm shower increases both blood flow to your skin and heat loss from your body. A cold shower decreases blood flow to your skin and once the flow starts up again, you’ll feel hot again. So – be sure to add a warm shower before bed into your routine during the hotter months.
Now you’re equipped with plenty of information, we wish everyone a very good night’s sleep!