It is extremely important to get a good night sleep, especially as a college student. Students may think it is better to pull an all-nighter to get all of their work done, instead of sleeping. Yet, without sleep, you are more prone to getting sick, which is a major setback. You may think it is impossible to get a full eight hours of sleep with the heavy workload college entails -- but it is!
1. Set a bedtime -- and stick to it!
It may be difficult to set the same bed time for every night, but try to set one within a two-hour gap. This will allow your internal clock to set and make for a good night sleep.
2. Try to avoid taking naps.
Naps are some individuals favorite part of the day, but it is important to not take them too frequently. Frequent naps can cause you to have trouble falling asleep at night, causing you to stay up later. If you must nap, try to nap for only 30 minutes, or you will actually wake up feeling more tired!
3. Relax an hour before bed.
It is important to take time before bed to relax and unwind. Try drinking sleepy time tea or reading a book/magazine.
4. Avoid being on your phone
Approximately an hour before bed, avoid playing your phone. This actually stimulates your brain, causing the pituitary gland to produce less melatonin which makes it to more difficult to fall asleep.
5. Think happy thoughts.
Most days can be very stressful between classes, tests, friends and more. It is important to clear your mind of negative thoughts when laying in bed. Think positively, and you will have an easier time sleeping.
6. Exercise during the day.
Between studying, homework, and running around campus to your various class, another great way to tire out your body is going to the gym and exercising. Exercise has been proven to wake you up, but if you workout early, by your bedtime, you will be more than ready to go to sleep!
7. Make yourself comfortable.
It is important to sleep in a bed that is comfortable and cozy. Arrange your bed to meet your needs with soft blankets and pillows.
8. Be aware of what you eat and drink.
Try not to go to bed super full because it can cause you to be internally uncomfortable, making it harder to fall asleep.
9. Ear plugs.
If you have noisy roommates or neighbors it may be a good idea to invest in a pair of ear plugs to eliminate noise.
