If sleep deprivation isn’t exactly at the top of your wishlist this summer, it might be time to think
about your bedroom’s temperature. Getting a good night’s sleep ensures that you awaken fresh
as a daisy and ready to tackle all of life’s challenges upon rising. Without adequate rest, we
lower our immune system’s ability to respond to illness, and let’s face it—we’re just unpleasant
to be around after a night of tossing and turning.
A Bit of Sleep Science
According to sleep.org, sleep researchers suggest that we set our thermostats between 66 and
70 degrees Fahrenheit at bedtime. While everyone is different, most sleep experts recommend
keeping our bedroom a bit on the cooler side for a restful night of slumber. Our circadian
rhythms (aka circadian cycles) are an internal process that controls our sleep-wake cycle every
24 hours. This rhythm is affected by our body temperature and when you sleep, your core
temperature drops. It rises again upon waking and fluctuates throughout the day, depending on
your range of activities.
Keep It Cool and Dark
Since our bodies depend on lower temperatures in order to fall asleep, a hot, humid bedroom is
going to set you up for failure. There’s even scientific data that suggests a bedroom that’s too
warm can lead to ongoing fatigue and other health concerns down the line. Why not take this
issue by the horns and take a moment to focus on your bedtime comfort?
Keeping the bedroom dimly lit and cool (not cold) will set you up for a successful transfer from
the chaos of your day into a peaceful, restorative night. Look into blinds and drapery that block
out all light. There are even remote-controlled window treatments that may be controlled with a
timer. Invest in a programmable thermostat with a heating and cooling schedule for different
times of day, saving you the hassle of remembering to do it yourself, plus saving you money on
your energy costs.
What Else Can You Do?
Look into better bedding. There are many pillows, mattresses, and various bedding supplies
manufactured with cooling in mind. When shopping for a comforter, for example, look for
keywords such as “temperature neutral” and “summer” or “winter” bedding. Changing your
bedroom up to match the seasons will help you to create the most perfect bedroom temperature
all year-round.
Meditation and yoga. Consider starting an evening zen routine to help calm you down. The
entire family can get into a gentle stretching and meditation regimen before bedtime. Make it
just like brushing your teeth—something that you need to do for your self-care at the day’s end.
Shut it down. Switch off all of your devices at least two hours prior to bedtime. We know that
this one may be a challenge, especially with all of the distractions of social media and online
gaming, but shutting down a bit earlier will help your body go with the natural flow of the night.
Bonus points if you leave your phone in another room to charge overnight. Invest in a dedicated
alarm clock for the bedroom; preferably one with some gentle settings to help you wake up to
birdsongs or cheerful, soft music.
If you’re ready for an amazing night’s sleep this summer, connect with Taylor today. Our team of
technicians can install the most effective state-of-the-art HVAC system with health benefits such
as air purification. Give us a call at (253) 208-5315.
