Research has shown that getting enough sleep is important for our good health. Unfortunately, almost half of Americans don’t get the sleep they need and only about half those try to. It can be tough — there are a million things that need to get done every day and time can feel limited. The easiest way to make a day stretch is to limit how much you sleep. (And did you know that humans are the only mammals that put off sleeping on purpose?) But the body (and the mind) need those hours of shuteye. If you’re having difficulty sleeping even once you hit the bed, you may want to take a look at your mattress and pillows. Whether you have a twin or a full size mattress, making sure that it’s comfortable for you is key to a good night’s sleep.
The Sleepless Nation: Why We Should Get More Sleep
Adults need between seven to nine hours of sleep every night, but as a nation, we’re averaging just under seven hours a night. Granted, some people may only need six hours of sleep a night, while others require ten hours to be at their best, but regardless — we all should be getting more sleep. In 2017, almost 40% of adults said that they felt tired when they woke up in the morning and terrifyingly, almost eight million drivers fall asleep at the wheel monthly! That’s almost 90 million people a year who are falling asleep at the wheel every year due to exhaustion.
Not getting enough sleep can lead to health problems and issues with cognitive abilities down the road. You’re more likely to get sick if you don’t sleep enough. And, sleep can help us maintain a healthy weight, makes us feel better, and can even help keep any cravings to a minimum!
What Might Be Some Factors In Not Getting Enough Shuteye?
In 2017, it was also reported that under 40% of adults said that they slept comfortably in the United States. Interestingly, the vast majority (90%) say that they think a comfortable mattress (be it a full size mattress or a twin or larger) is key to a good night’s sleep. Despite this, under half of them said that they actually slept on a comfortable mattress!
If you’re working with an uncomfortable mattress, invest in in a new one! Visit your local mattress stores and test out a few. Perhaps tempurpedic mattresses or memory foam mattresses might be right for you. You want to find the right firmness and support that suits your body. The same goes for pillows, too!
Stress is another major factor for those who can’t sleep. Even if you’re going to bed at a reasonable hour, you may find yourself tossing and turning, worrying about the events of the day or what’s ahead. Finding ways to wind down before bed — whether it’s yoga, meditation, listening to music, etc., — can be extremely helpful.
And, of course, you may have insomnia, or another sleeping disorder, in which case, you’ll want to check in with your doctor and see if he or she can help figure out a way to get you a good night’s sleep.
What Should I Look For in my Pillows or Full Size Mattress?
You want your pillow or mattress to give you enough support — this can help you avoid neck or back pain. One of the best ways to make sure you’re getting that support is to test out the pillow or mattress before purchasing! Visiting a physical mattress store can be great for that very reason. If you already have a brand you like, check out the different options they carry and test each one. And, it’s always worth checking into the store’s warranty and refund policy ahead of time.
Do yourself a favor and get some good sleep on a new full size mattress (or larger!). Your health, weight, and overall mood will thank you. Make sleep a priority in your life and feel better for having done so!
