Vacation is a time to unwind and let loose. Often that comes to the detriment of our sleep. Whether you’re jetlagged coming back from a different time zone or trying to get back into the routine of everyday life, here are some tips for getting back to sleeping well after vacation.
Don’t take naps during the day or evening.
As tempting as it may be, resist the draw of your bed during the day or especially in the evening. Sleeping during the day will push your bed time later and wake time later making getting up for the next day even more difficult.
Adjust your bedtime earlier 15 to 30 minutes at a time.
If you spent the last few days or week staying up late into the night, your body will be used to that routine. Start by trying to go to bed just a little earlier each night to adjust your body’s rhythm.
Create a bedtime and wake up routine.
Your body will take cues each day by what you do before bed. Create a routine that is consistent and ends at the same time each night. The routine will signal sleep to your body making it easier to fall asleep.
Waking up at the same time whether you have to get up for work or not will also help you to feel sleepy at night at the same time. Humans are creatures of habit, sticking to a schedule will help sleep overall.
Fit in some physical activity.
Getting enough exercise will help tire your body out for sleep. Aim to finish your workout a few hours before sleep so you aren’t too energized from it at bedtime. Walking outside is a great exercise to both get your heart pumping as well as some sunlight exposure to help tune in your circadian rhythm.
Reach out or visit us in Fargo or Sioux Falls for more sleep tips!