If you are doing these 8 things before bedtime, study says you are at risk
We all love a good night's sleep, but sometimes our bedtime habits can sabotage our rest. If you're finding it hard to drift off, you might be guilty of one (or more) of these common pre-sleep mistakes. Let’s dive into the worst things to do before bed, and how to avoid them for a better night's sleep.
1. Watching TV Shows Late

Just one more episode, right? Before you know it, you’ve binged a whole season. The bright screen tricks your brain into staying awake, disrupting your natural sleep cycle. The stimulating content keeps your mind active, making it harder to relax. Instead of watching TV, try reading a book or listening to a calming podcast. This can help signal to your brain that it's time to wind down and prepare for sleep.
2. Drinking Coffee Late

That afternoon coffee felt good, but now it's midnight, and you're wide awake. Caffeine can stay in your system for hours, making it harder to fall asleep. It blocks the sleep-inducing chemicals in your brain and increases adrenaline production, keeping you alert. To avoid this, limit your caffeine intake to the earlier part of the day. If you need a pick-me-up in the afternoon, try a short walk or a quick nap instead.
3. Late-Night Snacks

A big, heavy snack before bed can cause indigestion and keep you awake. Your body is busy digesting food instead of focusing on sleep. Spicy or fatty foods can be particularly problematic, leading to discomfort or heartburn. If you need a bite, go for something light like a banana or some nuts. These foods are easier to digest and can actually help promote better sleep.
4. Exercising Right Before Bed

Exercise is great, but doing it right before bed can keep you up. Intense workouts raise your heart rate and body temperature, making it harder to relax. Aim to finish your workout at least a few hours before bedtime. Gentle stretching or yoga can be a better option if you want to wind down and prepare your body for sleep.
5. Working in Bed

Bringing work to bed invites stress into your sleep space. Your brain associates the bed with work, making it harder to relax and fall asleep. Keep your bedroom for relaxation and sleep only. Set up a designated workspace elsewhere in your home to maintain a clear boundary between work and rest. This can help improve your sleep quality and reduce stress.
6. Arguing Before Bed
Having a fight before bed can leave you upset and restless. Negative emotions can trigger stress responses in your body, making it difficult to fall asleep. If you can, try to resolve conflicts earlier in the evening or agree to discuss them the next day. Practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation can also help calm your mind before bed.
7. Using Gadgets in Bed
Scrolling through social media or checking emails in bed keeps your brain active. The blue light from screens messes with your sleep cycle by suppressing melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep. Set a digital curfew to help you unwind. Put away your gadgets at least an hour before bedtime and opt for a relaxing activity like reading or journaling.
8. Skipping Your Routine
Consistency is key for good sleep. Skipping your bedtime routine or changing your sleep schedule often can confuse your body’s clock. Going to bed and waking up at different times every day disrupts your circadian rhythm, making it harder to fall asleep and wake up refreshed. Try to stick to a regular sleep schedule, even on weekends. Develop a calming bedtime routine that signals to your body it's time for sleep, such as taking a warm bath or practicing relaxation exercises.
By avoiding these common bedtime blunders, you can improve your chances of getting a restful night's sleep. Making small changes to your evening routine can have a big impact on your sleep quality and overall well-being. Sweet dreams! 💤