4 Bedtime Routines You’ll Want to Try with Your Concept Zzz Mattress

4 Bedtime routines you'll want to try with your Concept Zzz mattress

Do you have trouble nodding off to dreamland every night? Who knew you could be so tired yet unable to fall asleep at the same time! This could be a number of things wrecking your beauty sleep: an uncomfortable mattress or even a lack of a bedtime routine, to name a few.

If you’re struggling to sleep, no need to worry just yet! We recommend creating a healthy nightly routine to help refresh your sleep-deprived state and also testing out our Concept Zzz mattresses. Attempt a good night’s rest with these structured habits and you too may be able to get an ideal amount of sleep for once.

1. Create a Schedule

If you go to bed when you want and wake up when you want, that’s a red flag right there. Creating a schedule helps your body’s internal clock find consistency, which means it will naturally get tired at the same time every night and help you wake up at the same time every day. It’s a rather helpful tool when trying to fall asleep at a decent time.

2. Watch What and When You Eat and Drink

Everything you consume affects your sleep. From nicotine to caffeine, to even sugar and alcohol, your snoozing may have to wait while the effects of these wear off. To prevent yourself from staying up until the wee hours in the morning, or just having an awful and disruptive sleep, try to consume very little of these, or do it earlier in the day.

Not to mention, if you drink a lot of ANY liquid before sleep, you’ll just end up waking up and booking it to the bathroom. So, moral of the story: plan what you eat and drink accordingly.

3. Make Your Space Relaxing

You’ve all heard that “Cleanliness is next to godliness,” so cleaning your room should help you sleep like an angel, right? Well, sort of.

Keeping your room clean and organized can help immensely when it comes to you getting some good shut-eye. Unless you love living in chaos, most people don’t like being surrounded by piles of clothes on their Concept Zzz mattress or crowded bedside tables. Most of the time these messes stress people out, making it hard to sleep well.

The solution would be to not only clean up your room, but to also make it a soothing place to sleep. Get curtains or shades that block the morning light from coming in, and make sure your room stays a cooler or warmer temperature depending on your preference. Whatever you do, make your room a place that leaves you feeling calm and relaxed.

4. Be a Creature of Habit

Just like your body needs consistency to help it fall asleep at the same time every night, creating rituals before bed will help. It could be as simple as lighting a candle and reading a book, listening to calming music, or another way that helps your body know that it’s time to chill out.

Try to stay away from watching TV before bed because that has a tendency to keep you awake. The goal is to settle down, not get hyped up by watching your favourite action flick on Netflix. Create a habit that helps you get into the sleepy mindset so your body will be ready to pass out as soon as it hits the sheets.

We want you to get a good night’s rest, and sometimes that takes more than adding a couple sleep habits to your routine. Sometimes it means purchasing a new mattress because your current one is just not fitting your body right anymore. Stop by our store to check out our Concept Zzz mattresses today, and we’ll help guide you to the one that’ll get you snoozing in no time!

Angela, Your Sleep Expert

How to Keep Your Beautyrest Mattress Empty of Bed Bugs

How to Keep Your Beautyrest Mattress Empty of Bed Bugs

Worrying about bugs being in your bed is an awful feeling. Your sleeping time should be relaxing and healing, but if you’re too busy being concerned with bed bugs, it’s rather stressful. Your health can be affected and get worse due to the lack of sleep and even the bed bug bites. Keeping bed bugs out of your bed is the easy part, but once you have them, they’re a lot more difficult to remove. Don’t let your sleep space get to that point and follow these steps to ensure you never, ever, have to think about bed bugs taking over your Beautyrest mattress.

1. Cover Your Power Outlets

Bed bugs are small, and they use this to their advantage. They tend to fit into small crevices, such as power outlets as a safe way to get around. It’s a good idea to cover your power outlets so bed bugs don’t have the ability to travel throughout your house. If you happen to get some of these nocturnal nasties in one room and your outlets aren’t covered, there’s a good chance they’ve already made their way to other rooms in the house through the power outlets. Get your outlets covered, and you can at least prevent an outbreak from occurring in other rooms in your home.

2. Sweep and Vacuum

Simply cleaning your house could be the best way to prevent bed bugs from being in your home. Bed bugs are scavengers by nature. They go after crumbs, messes, other dead bugs, and basically anything they can get their little insect hands on. If you sweep, vacuum, and mop your house, leaving little on the ground, bed bugs are less likely to be interested in your things. Be sure to keep your house squeaky clean, and you’ll probably be very successful at avoiding the swarms.

3. Forget the Clutter

If you tend to be a bit of a hoarder, bed bugs are going to love you. Just like cockroaches, bed bugs like to find small crevices, where they can hide, keep warm, and lay their eggs. When there are boxes or piles of clothes everywhere, it’s like a bed bug’s dream. Beat the clutter by reorganizing or getting rid of some things.

4. Identify Bed Bug Bites Early

The sooner you know you have bed bugs, the sooner you can act on getting rid of them. While you can do all that you can to prevent them from even entering your house, it’s always a good idea to at least know what it looks like when an epidemic may be on your hands. Check your body for bites, which will look like little red bumps that tend to be in a line. They’ll be a little itchy and act a lot like a mosquito bite. As soon as you see this occur, call an exterminator to nip this infestation in the bud.

The earlier you try and actively prevent bed bugs from getting on your mattress, the better your chances at avoiding them altogether. Sometimes bed bugs are just attracted to dust, sweat, and more from old mattresses, which means you may benefit from getting a new one.

Visit your local mattress store today, to find a Beautyrest mattress that will help you in your battle against the bed bugs. We’re rooting for you!

Angela, Your Sleep Expert

Memory Foam on a Power Base Bed Frame: A Match Made in Heaven

Memory Foam on a Power Base Bed Frame A Match Made in Heaven

Power bases, or as some call them adjustable beds, have evolved and are no longer only found in hospital rooms. They have become a huge favourite and continue to impress with their sleep-altering experience technology. While power bases are the obvious choice for snorers, fussy sleepers and couples, what mattress type pairs well with this revolutionary technology? Memory foam is the perfect addition to the power base bed frame. Let’s review why.

They Are the Perfect Match

An adjustable base is only as effective as the mattress we place on it. While a power base bed frame can bend to your every whim, the mattress surface has to move freely as well. Memory foam mattresses offer the most versatility, flexibility, comfort, support and durability of any other mattress type.

They Have Flexibility

Memory foam has become, in recent years, an incredibly popular mattress for adjustable bases because of its flexibility and unmatched pressure relief. A memory foam mattress selectively displaces pressure along the length of the sleeper’s body and is absolutely complimented by the range of motion provided by the adjustable bed base. As the power base bends, a foam mattress will effortlessly move along with it. This makes the transition from lying down to an upright position a seamless and controlled experience.

Memory Foam on a Power Base Bed Frame A Match Made in Heaven (2)

They Have Durability

Memory foam mattresses are sold in a variety of densities and can be personalized to match our needs. The two most important factors when considering a foam mattress’s durability are the layers and the density.

Typically, a foam mattress will have a top layer for comfort, a middle layer for support and, the base layer for durability. Price will determine how many layers there are, and the quality of the base layer ultimately determining its durability. The foam density is determined by weight so it will be easy to confirm just by lifting it if purchasing from a showroom. A high-density foam will weigh about 5lbs or more per cubic foot while a low-density 3.5lbs or less. For durability, we want to see a good strong and heavy base foam to withstand the test of time from constant adjustments on the power base bed frame.

They Have a Cooling Technology

There is this assumption floating around that memory foam mattresses let our bodies overheat as we sink into them. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Modern memory foam mattresses vent away warm air and are mostly made using moisture-wicking fabrics and gels. So as the temperature increases, a memory foam mattress will become softer, activating its cooling properties. These materials are perfect for an adjustable base as they can stretch and always return to their original shape.

If a personalized and controlled sleep experience is what you are looking for, then you should be considering the unique technologies of memory foam coupled with a great power base. These innovative products were developed at different times for different reasons but joining them is just pure genius.

Purchasing a mattress is definitely not a “one-size fits all” experience, but a very personal one. Finding that perfect fit in a memory foam mattress, considering layers, type of foam and density factor can be a match made in heaven.

Gerry, Your Sleep Expert

Wool or Cotton Pyjama, Which One Is Best for a Good’s Night Sleep

Wool or Cotton Pyjama, Which One Is Best for a Good’s Night Sleep

Whether we sleep in the buff, only socks, only bottoms or something in between, pyjamas continue to be a constant giftable item. For Christmas and birthdays, the easy go-to gifts are the PJs, whether made with sexy silk or cool cotton, they are the popular gift because, well everyone sleeps, right?

Researchers have discovered that there is a “thermal comfort zone” which is most conducive to sleep and the fabric that will get us there. You will never guess that whether you live in a climate that is 40 degrees below zero or 40 above, wool is the unmatched winner! Although that may seem counter-intuitive especially on those hot nights, wool has a way of regulating our body temperature as it normally drops at sleep-time.

A recent study conducted in Australia researching young and old subjects, showed that wearing wool pyjamas adds 15 minutes to our sleep time. Younger subjects fell asleep 4 minutes faster and slept an average of 7 minutes longer while wearing pyjamas made with merino wool. The older subjects had the highest results with an added 20 to 27 minutes of extra sleep time! Although these tests were conducted in rooms with temperatures of 17 degrees Celsius, the results are still quite outstanding.

Wool or Cotton Pyjama, Which One Is Best for a Good’s Night Sleep (2)

The study is not suggesting that we wear our large woollen sweaters to bed as the fibres could potentially keep us awake. The merino wool recommended is spun into a soft jersey-like fabric so irritation on sensitive skin should not occur. Before the industrialized revolution, the two most commonly used fabrics were wool and cotton. Enter synthetics, and everyone has forgotten about the benefits of natural fabrics. Science is bringing them back for consideration as we return to more natural and sustainable living.

Sleep.org, however, points out the benefits of using other fabrics for sleep. Wool may not be suitable for everyone and if we have sensitive skin or suffer from night sweats, ultimately wool may not be best. We should also keep in mind that Australia has the world’s second-largest sheep population behind China, so the study could be slightly biased.

Despite what benefits the Australian study show in wearing wool for sleep, it may cause the opposite results in some. Cotton, in cooler climates, may also be uncomfortable unless we use layers of blankets and it does a poor job in wicking away moisture. Fabrics made from bamboo and silk or going “au naturel” are still worthwhile considerations and ultimately vary with people’s preferences despite the studies.

In summary, the Australian study shows remarkable data when wearing wool pyjamas for sleep with the highest benefits for seniors. Clearly, this group has the most to profit from the fabric. In medical terms, the thermal comfort zone can vary from 15 degrees to 25 degrees Celsius depending on the individual, pregnancy, menopause and other medical issues. Considering wool if you never thought of it before, could potentially yield the results you are seeking.

Gerry, Your Sleep Expert

World Sleep Day: Healthy Sleep, Healthy Aging

World Sleep Day Healthy Sleep, Healthy Aging

World Sleep Day is a celebration of all things “sleep” as well as a time that brings awareness to sleep disorders and advancements made in the field. This internationally recognized event is organized by the World Sleep Society whose goal is to bring awareness to sleep-related issues and promote sleep health through organized events both worldwide and locally.

The 12th annual World Sleep Day’s slogan is “Healthy Sleep, Healthy Aging,” and will highlight the importance that sleep has on our health at any age. It is a well-known fact that sleep, as one of the main pillars of good health along with nutrition and exercise, is directly related to our overall physical, mental and emotional wellness. Quality sleep also affects how young we look and feel!

Participating in this event includes reviewing our own sleep hygiene habits and where we can make improvements that will ultimately affect our health and how we age!

We Are Career-oriented with Little Sleep

If we are the ambitious type who believes sleep is for the weak, we are not helping our career one little bit. Quality restorative sleep is essential to rest the mind and body so that it can continuously function and help us be productive.

Trying to climb the corporate ladder on little to no sleep will keep us at the lower rung. Our minds can’t fire-up on all cylinders to stay sharp and competitive. Remember, we should ‘sleep our way to the top’!

We Are a Couple Finding Balance

New couples seem to have the same complaints. One is a snorer, the other a light sleeper. One likes the mattress firm, the other soft. One likes the bedroom cool while the other warm. Couples who can ultimately sleep together in peace will truly find harmony in their relationship. With advancements in sleep technology and many resources on the topic, couples can find their perfect solutions.

World Sleep Day Healthy Sleep, Healthy Aging (2)

We Are Parents with Young Children

Studies show that parents with infants get approximately 4 hours of sleep daily. That is about 50% of what we should be getting to function properly. This clearly affects us on a mental, emotional and physical level when we need to be the most alert. Recognizing that we need help during the first year of parenthood is the first step to getting what we need. Asking for that help is essential. Arranging sitters for a few hours a day so that we can get some rest is the best thing we can do for ourselves, and for our baby.

We Are Suffering from Chronic Pain

Many of us get caught in that cycle of less sleep brings more pain and more pain brings less sleep. This unrelenting cycle should be recognized early after an injury or chronic illness. Natural remedies, physiotherapists and alternative techniques are all worthwhile to consider as we help our bodies heal so that we can sleep.

Sleep is the best remedy for everything. Sleep helps us recover from injury and illness, even grief. Sleep is essential for our brains to function at optimum speed and efficiency. Sleep balances our moods that can affect our weight and how our bodies age. So, let’s circle March 15th on our calendars and take some time to review our sleep habits and enjoy the benefits of “Healthy Sleep, Healthy Aging”!

Gerry, Your Sleep Expert

Daylight Savings and the Impact on Our Sleep

Daylight Savings and the Impact on Our Sleep

The subject of daylight savings and the impact it has on our sleep has been written about ad nauseum and yet, we can still find new information on the subject! The concept of losing or gaining an hour is based on our fear of how much sleep we will lose or gain. It’s all about our precious hold on our sleep time and really nothing else, other than, yes more daylight time to enjoy!

First, the science. Melatonin a naturally occurring hormone which is triggered by the changes in light. As dusk begins to fall, this hormone kicks in, but very slowly until it reaches a peak, and then it begins to fall very close to dawn. Unfortunately, some of us with bad sleep habits may produce less melatonin and require taking a supplement to top it up. Shift workers are also affected by irregular production of the hormone as day and night become irrelevant.

If melatonin, then, is affected by the amount of daylight, it is safe to say that the hormone begins to produce much later during daylight savings. This is when room darkening curtains and eye masks get plenty of use. Our bodies know that it’s bedtime, but our eyes tell us it’s still too early to hit the hay! Here, then, begins the disruption in our sleep cycle.

Daylight Savings and the Impact on Our Sleep

Now, the reality and how to deal with the change! If we disregard the blinking clock on our DVD player and keep watching movies until it’s the right kind of dark outside, we will pay handsomely! The morning after the change, our bodies will be screaming for more sleep, and a few mornings after that, until our bodies adjust. Whether we are careless with our sleep time and don’t keep to our regular schedule, or convince ourselves we can handle it, we fail! It’s human nature.

When the sun gently peeked through our curtains later in the morning, now it’s blinding us at what seems the break of dawn! Well, it is, just at a different time! Every year, we know it’s coming and yet, we are often found unprepared. Keeping to our regular sleep schedule is without a doubt the best way to alleviate the stress on our sleep rhythm. For the first few days, taking a nap whenever possible can also help stabilize our sleep needs.

Irritability can often result from getting less sleep in the first few days. As a toddler who doesn’t get his afternoon nap, as usual, will throw himself into a full-on tantrum, we adults are no different. Equally upsetting is getting smacked in the face with a flashlight-like beam of sunlight and can get us started on the wrong foot.

Prepare! Prepare like a boy scout! We should know in advance what we need to hold on to our precious sleep. What do we need? A sleep-mask? Room darkening curtains? Melatonin for the first few days? Whatever we need, it should be ready to go as the powers that be dictate it is time to “spring forward”. In Canada, in 2019, that will be March 10th which is very close to National Sleep Day on March 18th! A coincidence? I think not!

Gerry, Your Sleep Expert

How Does Sleep Deprivation Affects Your Health?

How Does Sleep Deprivation Affect Our Health

Over time, sleeplessness can have a huge impact on your health both in the short term and long term. Let’s examine what to look for by becoming more aware of your thoughts and behaviours. Although these are not all directly attributable to sleep deprivation, it is well worth keeping these in mind.

Drowsiness During the Day

Drowsiness could also be attributed to a lack of hydration – are you drinking the 8 glasses of water a day? But when you have that covered, why are you so sleepy if you got at least 8 hours of sleep? Examining this issue more closely could reveal some interesting facts about your sleep habits.

Want to know more, read this 5 Bad Habits Messing Up With Your Sleep.

Foggy Brain

When you have trouble concentrating, no matter how hard you try and how much caffeine you consume, you should consider the quality of your sleep. If you suspect sleep disorders like sleep apnea, you should consider taking a sleep study test.

Here is more on what is a sleep test: What It’s Like to Take a Sleep Study?.

Overeating and Weight Gain

Sleep deprivation can bring on hunger and cravings like no marathon can. If you are having trouble pushing yourself away from the table, it is time to consider how well rested your body truly is.

Read more on this topic here: How Bad Sleep and Weight Gain Go Hand and Hand.

High blood pressure and lack of sleep

High Blood Pressure

If your body is on constant high alert and unable to wind down, the results could be affecting how well or poorly your heart is pumping. Checking your blood pressure regularly with a home unit or a visit to the local pharmacy will help you keep a record and watch for fluctuations.

High Anxiety and Moodiness

Flying off the handle, as they say, could be attributed to a lack of sleep and not poor character. If you are noticing that your tolerance over little things that go wrong has become extremely low, it’s time to check on how much sleep you are getting.

Headaches

You should be aware of how much headache medication you are reaching for. If you discover you are taking them daily to alleviate headaches, you should examine if you are getting the restorative sleep that you need.

Back problems and old mattress

Back Pain and Other Aches

Your mattress could require a review if it is more than 8 years old. Sagginess can result in back pain and joint aches that come on suddenly. The proper pillow can also affect how your head and shoulders are cradled affecting the muscles and tendons in the area.

Not sure your mattress needs to be replaced, find out about the signs you should not ignore here: 6 Signs You Need a New Mattress.

Clumsiness and Work Accidents

If you suddenly have ‘butterfingers’ or easily trip over or bump into things, you could be sleep deprived. When this is not your regular functioning mode, then you need to look more closely at your sleep patterns.

Several of these issues can be attributed to other health concerns and should always be discussed with a health professional. In the meanwhile, considering your quality of sleep is worthwhile examining as sleep is one of the 3 pillars to good health, next to nutrition and exercise.

Gerry, Your Sleep Expert

Do I Really Need a Box Spring for My Beautyrest Mattress?

Do I Really Need a Box Spring for My Beautyrest Mattress

Ah, the age old question of new mattress buyers: to box spring or not to box spring?

It’s a question without a simple answer, and what you decide is going to depend on you, your mattress, and the box spring itself. So do you really need a box spring to take home with that brand new Beautyrest mattress of yours? Let’s take a closer look and find out.

What Is a Box Spring For?

The main functions of a box spring are to absorb the impact of getting in and out of bed every day (reducing wear and tear on your mattress) and giving your Beautyrest mattress a firm surface to rest on, so your body is better supported while you sleep. Plus, of course, they help lift you up off the ground and away from dust, dirt, and allergens that may be floating around down there. Yuck! This can be especially helpful during the summer – you’d be surprised how much cooler you’ll sleep with that little bit of extra ventilation!

These days, box springs are a little more advanced than the rickety boxes of the past (many of them opt for sturdy metal or wood rather than actual springs) but they still serve the same basic purpose: providing a little extra support for your body while you sleep.

What Mattresses Work Well with a Box Spring?

Most of them!

A sturdy foundation is an absolute must-have for any and all mattresses, and a box spring is the perfect option. In fact, many mattress warrantees require you to use one as a universal standard to prevent unnecessary wear on the mattress.

Double-sided mattresses that can be flipped over do especially well on box springs. Though this type of mattress has largely fallen out of style, if you happen to own or buy one, you’ll want to invest in a good box spring. With most single-sided mattresses, having a box spring is not as important, as they typically come built-in with all the support a mattress needs on the underside. But providing a little extra cushion and support can be a big help.

Heavy foam mattresses especially tend to need the extra support a box spring provides. While a spring or hybrid mattress may do just fine on a slatted platform bed or even the floor, foam will tend to sag through the slats or squash against the ground. So do your Beautyrest mattress a favour and get a box spring!

Do I Really Need a Box Spring for My Beautyrest Mattress 2

So Do I Really Need One?

When it comes down to it, box springs aren’t an absolute necessity for many mattresses, but you will need some kind of supportive foundation one way or another. Depending on the Beautyrest mattress, you can always forgo a bit of comfort and ventilation and put your bed directly on the floor, or even on wood pallets, to firm up the mattress a bit. But if you want customized support that helps you sleep soundly and rest easy every night, you’ll want to invest in something a little more reliable.

Platform beds are another great option, as well as adjustable power foundations. Adjustable beds are the ultimate in comfort and support, letting you adjust your mattress depending on your needs. Some models even let you and your sleeping partner choose different positions, maximizing your comfort without going full-on 50’s sitcom couple. We have plenty of foundation options in store, and just as you should always test out a mattress before buying, you should always test out a bed frame too. Come have a snooze in our store and see which one feels best to you!

Whether you decide to go with a box spring or not, be sure to get a Beautyrest mattress that supports you just right, and a foundation that perfectly complements your mattress! Getting the right support is important, and that’s why our team is always ready to support you on your journey to better sleep with helpful blogs and expert advice in-store.

If you still can’t decide whether or not you want a box spring for your new Beautyrest mattress, come on down to our store! We can help you decide what type of foundation is just right for you – and offer you unbeatable selection and prices while we’re at it!

Angela, your sleep expert

5 Ways to Design Your Tempur-Pedic Bed and Room for Better Sleep

5 Ways to Design Your Tempur-Pedic Bed and Room for Better Sleep

We all know that coffee and sweets before bed don’t add up to a restful night of sleep, but did you know your bedroom can also be helping or hurting your nightly Z’s?

That’s right, the way you arrange your room can have a big impact on how you sleep at night! If you’ve been tossing and turning despite following all the conventional bedtime wisdom, it might be time to take a closer look at your space. Here are a few ways you can spruce up your room and feel more rested on your Tempur-Pedic while you’re at it!

That Blue Light, Don’t Want It

You’ve probably heard this a hundred times before: don’t use your cell phone before bed! But that warning is about more than just the dangers of getting caught up stalking exes on Instagram – it’s about the blue light that most electronic screens emit.

TVs, computers, and even digital alarm clocks all send signals to your brain saying, “It’s daytime, get up and at ‘em!” Not exactly what you want in your space when you’re trying to sleep on your Tempur-Pedic bed. So, try to make sure TVs and computers are off and covered up at night, phones are far out of reach, and alarm clocks are dimmed or swapped out for analog options. Your brain will thank you!

Paint the Town Blue

Or if not the whole town, at least your room! Some studies have shown that people sleeping in blue bedrooms on average get about two hours more sleep than people sleeping in rooms painted purple or brown. Blue is considered a calming colour, associated with rest and relaxation, which helps signal to your brain it’s time to chill out and get your snooze on. A fresh coat of paint or at least some blue drapes can make a big difference in the quantity and quality of your sleep.

Blue Bedroom helps inprove sleep

Here Comes the Sun

While we’re on the subject of drapes, you’ll want to make sure you invest in a good set for your bedroom. Light is the sworn enemy of a good night’s sleep, so be sure to cover your windows well. Street lights, passing cars, and the sun in the wee hours of the morning can disturb your rest and keep you from getting that refreshing REM sleep you need. Regular old blinds might look nice, but they tend to let light in between the slats. Blackout curtains are a great way to keep out unwanted light and make your bedroom feel more cozy and private.

Spring Cleaning

You don’t need a major room remodel to make your space more comfortable! Cleaning up clutter can make a world of difference in your nightly sleep. A messy space can cause anxiety and keep you from resting well, so spruce up a bit before you get cozy. A clean room and Tempur-Pedic mattress also limit late-night mental stimulation, so you’re not constantly distracted with visual reminders of all the things you have to get done in the morning.

Here is a complete cleaning list for your bedroom Your Complete Bedroom Spring Cleaning Checklist

Comfy bed

Be Bed-er

Of course, the most important part of your room’s sleep hygiene is your bed. Your Tempur-Pedic bed should be perfectly set up for rest and relaxation, so that you just can’t help but doze off the second you hit the sheets. That means clean, cozy blankets, plenty of pillows, and of course, a mattress that suits you perfectly.

Your Tempur-Pedic mattress should be switched out approximately every five to seven years, or at the first visible signs of wear and tear. If you spend hours just trying to get comfortable every night or wake up with aches and pains all over, a new mattress should be the first bedroom upgrade you look for. There’s no single mattress type that fits everyone, so come into our store to try out all the options we have in stock, from soft to firm, twin to king, pillowtop to memory foam. A comfortable Tempur-Pedic bed is the first step toward the sleep of your dreams!

Your sleep is important, so make sure your room is doing its best to guide you into dreamland every night! If your sleepless nights are being caused by a faulty mattress, come on down to our store. We have everything you need for a better night’s sleep, and our expert associates are ready with even more tips and pointers to help you start resting easier every night.

Angela, Your Sleep Expert

8 Simple Tips to a Good Night’s Sleep

8 Simple Tips to a Good Night’s Sleep

When you toss and turn all night, you have tons of time to think of the reasons why you can’t get some shut eye. Let’s review 8 great tips to make sure you get the sleep you need!

You may have heard all of these tips before, but you are still not sleeping well for whatever reason. Studies show that our days are getting longer and our nights shorter and it has nothing to do with daylight saving time! Why aren’t you sleeping? What keeps you so revved up that sleep has become a hindrance to your productivity. Whatever it is, you need to change things up!

1) Coffee, drink less of it!

Yes, you’ve heard this before and yet you continue to drink copious amounts at the worse time of the day. This includes the caffeine in teas, colas, chocolate and that headache medication you just took, yup, that too! Being more aware of what you are ingesting may yield some interesting results! Go caffeine-free for a while and see what happens!

If you want to know more about caffeine consumption and sleep, read this Can’t Sleep: How Much Caffeine Are You Consuming.

2) Reduce the lights and noise in your bedroom

The idea of creating an oasis in your bedroom should not be a big surprise or impossible to achieve. Sight and sound are the two biggest disruptors to sleep especially when you are tense and need to relax quickly. Getting room-darkening curtains or if you prefer an eye mask to remove any visual stimulation is a great start. If you live near a busy street, playing white noise while you sleep will cut out any distractions keeping you awake.

3) Don’t mess with the internal clock!

When you get to sleep at the same time every night, even on weekends, it keeps your internal clock on steady mode. Sleeping and waking at various times during the week creates some internal confusion and your body loses its routine and balance.

4) Start a sleep hygiene routine

Routines keep us on track, balanced and help us sleep. Before bed, have a cup of calming chamomile tea, or a hot bath. Practising yoga or gentle stretches before hitting the bed helps trigger your mind that it’s time to wind down. Whatever you think, your body will obey! So, think happy thoughts and write them in a gratitude journal.

Stretching in bed

5) You’re having what for supper?

Making the evening meal a light and nutritious feast can impact how you sleep. Moving away from fried and fatty foods at dinner to a vegetables, lean protein, and healthy carbs dish could make all the difference. Healthy before-bed snacks are possible if you follow the suggestions listed in my previous article: Snack Attack at Bedtime: Easy and Healthy?.

So, what’s on the menu?

6) Nap at your own risk!

Naps are great, don’t get me wrong! They are excellent at boosting energy and productivity. It’s the time of day in which you indulge that will impact your nighttime sleep. You must make sure they are less than 20 minutes and early in the afternoon.

Read this article from my colleague Gerry to become a successful napper: Habits of a Successful Napper.

7) Sleep disorders can be keeping you up

If you suspect that you suffer from such disorders as snoring, or sleep apnea, it is always best to consult with a health professional. This blog on helping you determine if you have one is a great read and full of issues to look for: How Do You Know If You Have a Sleep Disorder.

8) Keep it cool!

Your room temperature should be at a cool setting to promote a comfy sleep! Extra blankets on the bed, microfibre sheets and comfy pj’s can offset the cooler air so drop those temps!

Check out more tips on temps here!

Keeping these tips in mind can make all the difference in the world because how you sleep affects everything!

Angela, Your Sleep Expert