The Science Behind Why a Cold Room Helps You Sleep Better
Getting enough sound sleep at night is a topic of paramount importance for our health and wellness. An optimal sleeping environment, in terms of temperature, noise, and lightness is integral for us to get our much needed Z’s. One key part of this optimal sleeping environment can be found in the temperature of the room. In this article, we will explore the science behind how sleeping in a cold room can help us sleep better.
Studies have shown that in general, the recommended room temperature for sleeping should be between 60 to 67 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s important to note that individual preferences can vary based on comfort levels. In colder climates, many people may find sleeping in slightly cooler temperatures more comfortable than in warmer climates. However, it is generally accepted that the ideal temperature for sleeping lies in the lower end of the range.
It’s understandable that, in order to sleep well, one may need to regulate their bedroom temperature. In this regard, setting the temperature lower when it’s time for sleep is often encouraged.
Why a Cold Room Helps Us Sleep
When the body’s temperature decreases, the body is signaled to begin producing melatonin and serotonin, two hormones important in the quality of one’s sleep. As such, creating an environment with a lower temperature can encourage the body to do what it needs to do in preparation for a restful sleep. Studies have found that sleeping in colder temperatures can also help improve one’s focus, since melatonin is also a hormone responsible for attention improvement.
In addition to having an effect on hormone production, sleeping in a cold bedroom can also minimize any body discomfort, helping the individual fall asleep easier. Warmer temperatures can cause the body to sweat, increasing the chances of disrupted sleep.
How to Prepare Your Bedroom for a Good Night’s Sleep
If you are looking to prepare your bedroom for a restful night, one of the most important steps to take is to ensure it is cool enough. An optimal temperature range is key in achieving a restful night of sleep. Heat can be difficult to control, so it pays to make sure you are using breathable and light fabrics for your bedding and curtains to create a more comfortable environment.
For those individuals who may still find issues with sleeping in colder temperatures, investing in a fan or a humidifier can help keep the air circulated and cool. An air conditioner is also a great solution for keeping the room temperature regulated during the hotter months.
Using the right mattress and pillow can also help you achieve cool comfort during sleep. Traditional innerspring mattresses, for example, can be more conducive to temperature regulation as they are usually made of natural vents and crosscuts that promote air circulation.
Things to Consider
- The recommended temperature for sleeping should be between 60 to 67 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Lower temperatures encourage the production of melatonin and serotonin.
- Choose breathable and light fabrics for bedding and curtains.
- A fan or a humidifier can help keep the air circulated and cool.
- Invest in a mattress and pillow that aid temperature regulation.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, creating an environment that is comfortable, secure, and cool can help enable a quality night’s sleep. By regulating the bedroom temperature and relying on the right mattress and bedding, individuals can significantly improve their sleep and wake up feeling rested and energized.