Prioritize getting a good night's rest
As a student, feeling rested can have a huge impact on how you learn and retain information. Good sleep helps prepare your brain to learn, remember, and create, according to the National Institute of Health. It can also help ward off sickness and other health disorders. We've put together a short list of tips to help build healthy habits and prioritize getting a good night's sleep.
Aim for 7-9 hours per night
Work to understand your optimal amount of sleep. Some people benefit from seven hours and some up to nine. Explore and understand when you feel most rested.
Have a set bedtime and wake time
Consistency is key. Try to aim for the same bedtime and wake time within an hour range. Differences day to day mess with your circadian rhythm and make your brain struggle to know when it's time to sleep.
Power naps = 20 minutes max
When naps are longer than 20 minutes you enter into a deeper stage of sleep, which then makes you feel more tired and groggy.
Develop a before-bed routine
A routine cues your brain to think "Oh, sleep is coming." The routine doesn't have to be elaborate.
Create a space that promotes sleep
Keep your bed for sleep and sexual activity. Ensure that your space is the right temperature, dark, and quiet (or you can use some white noise). During winter, make sure that the air is not too dry.
Avoid behaviors that interrupt sleep
Caffeine, alcohol, blue lights, and exercise can directly affect your quality of sleep.
Make sleep a priority
As a college student, it can be easy to think that there's not enough time for sleep. Getting good quality sleep can pay you back in the long run by ensuring that you have the motivation, concentration, and creativity that you need during your waking hours.
Take the next step
Download this handy sleep diary to help you track your sleep patterns and build healthy habits.