How Reading Before Bed Can Improve Sleep
Getting a good night of sleep is something that many people struggle with and might not think of reading as a solution. However, reading before bed can actually be a great way of aiding sleep. It helps to relax the body and mind by distracting them from stress and fatigue, making it easier to drift off when the time comes.
By reading before bed, you can also reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep. Research has shown that it can take up to half an hour less for people who read before bed compared to those who don’t. This can be a really helpful way of ensuring that you get the necessary 8 hours of sleep every night.
It’s important to make sure that the material you’re reading is calming and doesn’t excite or agitate your mind. Reading can still overstimulate your brain and make it harder to sleep; so it’s best to opt for a book that isn’t too intense or thought-provoking. Fiction is usually the ideal choice for this.
Benefits of Reading Before Bed
In addition to helping you relax and fall asleep easier, reading before bed can bring about many other benefits. Studies have shown that those who read for half an hour before bed can attain higher levels of concentration, leading to improved performance with school and work tasks.
Furthermore, reading before bedtime can help keep your brain and memory sharp. By allowing your mind to wander and process new ideas, you can greatly increase your knowledge of a related subject and make it easier to retain your learning in the future.
Which Type of Book Should You Choose?
The type of books you read before bed can make a big difference in how it impacts your sleep cycle. It’s always best to choose something calming and easy to read such as a classic novel that you can just get lost in. Non-fiction novels are not recommended for reading before bed because they could be too stimulating to the mind.
You should aim to choose a book that will take your mind away from the stresses of the day. Focus on the book’s characters and plot and try to train your brain to only concentrate on the book. Avoiding too much focus on one particular topic, and instead allowing your mind to wander, will get you ready to go to bed when you need to.
Another tip is to make sure that the books you read are not too exciting. Try to select one that is slow-paced and enjoyable as this will help you relax and get to sleep all the quicker.
Things to Avoid When Reading Before Bed
- Stimulating or thought-provoking books
- Books that make you anxious or excited
- Electronic devices such as smartphones or tablets
- Reading lengthy passages with bright lights
- Reading any material that may disrupt your sleep pattern
Conclusion
Reading before bed can be an effective way to achieve a deeper and more peaceful sleep. Choose a book that is not too stimulating and keep the lighting dim while you read. This will help you drift off to sleep more quickly and naturally.