Your bedroom serves a very important function. It’s the place where you’ll sleep – and the quality of the sleep you get here will have a big impact on your state of mind throughout the day and on your health outcomes in the long term.
In order to get the best possible sleep, you’ll want to tailor your bedroom to support that goal. But what changes might you consider?
Choose Soothing Colours for Walls and Décor
To begin with, it’s worth eliminating bold colours and chaotic patterns from your walls – or at least, limiting them to a few choice accent areas. Neutral shades that mimic the natural world tend to work best since that is what our eyes are adapted for. If you’re confronted with an eye-catching, vibrant shade of orange or purple every time you settle in for the night, you might have trouble settling down. Though the effect can be subtle, it’s often noteworthy.
Consider colours like soft blues, gentle greens, or muted earth tones. These colours create a sense of calm and relaxation, helping to prepare your mind and body for sleep. You can also incorporate these colours into your bedding, curtains, and other décor elements to create a cohesive and tranquil environment.
Invest in a Comfortable Mattress and Pillows
The quality of your mattress will make a huge difference to your comfort and quality of sleep. The same might be said of your pillows. Here is where it’s often worth spending extra to get the best bedding you can afford. After all, the consequences of this purchase will be significant. If you can justify occasionally spending ten pounds at a café, then spending extra on a pillow that’s going to improve your sleep for years to come might be easily justified.
With that said, it’s possible to spend extra without actually receiving a worthwhile benefit. Make sure that you test mattresses before you buy them, and that you pay attention to what you find comfortable, rather than the price tag.
Consider factors such as firmness, support, and material when selecting a mattress. Memory foam, latex, and hybrid mattresses each offer different benefits, so choose one that aligns with your sleep preferences. Similarly, choose pillows that provide adequate support for your neck and head, and replace them regularly to maintain their effectiveness.
Control Lighting for Better Sleep
Before you go to sleep, it’s a good idea to dial down the lighting. You want to give your eyes a rest and simulate natural darkness. Avoid phones and make sure that you finish up in the bathroom long before you settle in for the night. You might also use dimmable bulbs, too.
Consider blackout curtains to block out any external light sources that might disrupt your sleep. If you need a nightlight, opt for a dim, warm-coloured light that won’t interfere with your sleep cycle. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine that includes lowering the lights can signal to your body that it’s time to wind down.
Keep the Room Clutter-Free and Organised
The presence of excess clutter in your bedroom can lead to stress. Plus, it might make it more difficult to navigate the space. Thus, you might look to bespoke storage furniture that takes maximum advantage of the available space. In the bedroom, this often means working with the space directly over the top of the bed. Bespoke over-bed storage might help you to reduce clutter while providing you with easy access to items that might be useful when you’re actually in bed, like books and chargers.
Consider incorporating multi-functional furniture, such as storage ottomans or under-bed storage containers, to maximize your space. Regularly declutter your bedroom to maintain a clean and serene environment that promotes relaxation.
Incorporate Relaxing Aromas and Sounds
Drifting off to sleep might require creating the right atmosphere in the room. What this means might depend on your personality. You might play relaxing music or use scented candles and aromatic aids to help you drift off. Just make sure that you’re taking appropriate precautions when it comes to fire safety and that you have a fire extinguisher in the house for emergencies.
Consider using essential oil diffusers with calming scents like lavender, chamomile, or eucalyptus. These scents have been shown to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. Additionally, you can use white noise machines or nature sound apps to create a soothing auditory environment that masks any disruptive noises.
Personalize Your Sleep Space
Your bedroom should reflect your personal preferences and provide a sense of comfort and security. Personalize your sleep space with items that bring you joy and relaxation, such as soft blankets, comfortable loungewear, and meaningful décor. The goal is to create a sanctuary where you can unwind and recharge.
Maintain a Comfortable Temperature
The temperature of your bedroom can significantly impact your sleep quality. Aim to keep your bedroom cool, around 60-67 degrees Fahrenheit (15-19 degrees Celsius), as a cooler environment is conducive to better sleep. Use fans, air conditioning, or breathable bedding materials to regulate the temperature.
Conclusion
Creating the ideal sleep environment in your bedroom involves a combination of factors, from choosing soothing colours and investing in comfortable bedding to controlling lighting and reducing clutter. By making thoughtful changes to your bedroom, you can enhance your sleep quality and overall well-being. Remember, the key to a restful night’s sleep is a harmonious and tranquil environment that supports relaxation and rejuvenation.
