As the seasons shift, so do our routines, prompting the need to readjust and align with a new rhythm of life. With autumn activities in full swing, families should be deliberate about their sleep routines to ensure they don’t miss out on the enchanting moments that lie ahead.
According to SleepScore, people tend to lose approximately 15 1/2 hours of sleep (about 10 minutes each night) during the summer months, a phenomenon known as the “summer sleep slump.” In response to this challenge, Natrol, a leading brand in sleep, mood, and stress supplements, is partnering with behavioral sleep specialist Shelby Harris to assist individuals in regaining control over their sleep and mood, enabling them to fully engage in each day.
“Sleep is meant to enhance your day to the fullest,” affirms Harris. “There are intelligent behavioral adjustments that can be made to optimize your sleep routine this autumn, and sometimes this may involve incorporating melatonin supplements. I always ask, ‘If a sleep aid makes you drowsy throughout the day, what’s the point of using it?'”
Harris offers these practical tips to enhance your sleep routine:
- Assess Sleep Cycle Adjustments Before initiating any routine changes, consider the shifts you wish to implement. Begin by tracking your current sleep patterns and identifying factors that might hinder your existing sleep cycle, whether it’s difficulty falling asleep or restlessness during the night. Once identified, devise strategies to overcome these obstacles.
- Gradually Make Changes Remember, transformation is a gradual process. For many, a simple solution involves heading to bed earlier. Instead of aiming to compensate for those extra 30 minutes immediately, opt for a gradual transition. Begin by moving your bedtime routine 5 minutes earlier each night to work towards your goal.
- Allocate Time to Unwind Despite the hustle and bustle of autumn schedules, it’s crucial to prioritize time for winding down before sleep. Whether through reading a book, practicing meditation, or embracing another leisurely activity, engaging in a calming, screen-free practice can hasten the onset of sleep.
- Mind Your Light Exposure While it might seem apparent, excessive light exposure (both indoors and outdoors) during the evening hours can disrupt sleep patterns. Exercise caution by ensuring electronic devices like TVs and computers are turned off, smartphones are set aside, outdoor lights are dimmed, and curtains are drawn. Creating a darkened environment can significantly aid in falling and remaining asleep throughout the night.
- Consider a Non-Medicinal Sleep Aid Should you uphold consistent bedtime habits yet encounter difficulty falling asleep, contemplate incorporating a low-milligram melatonin supplement, such as those from Natrol. These supplements are designed to enhance sleep quality, promoting a well-rested and energized start to the day.†
“Melatonin is not a universal solution for restoring sleep patterns,” clarifies Harris. “However, selecting a brand offering USP Verified options, like Natrol’s 5MG Fast Dissolve Tablets, holds paramount importance.”
- Prioritize Your Morning Routine Although the snooze button may beckon, those additional minutes of sleep may prove counterproductive. Opt for awakening feeling revitalized by adhering to a consistent sleep schedule. Whether it involves morning stretches or simply propelling yourself out of bed, prioritizing movement and exposure to natural light can invigorate your day.
Discover more strategies to reestablish your sleep routine at Natrol.com.
