Health: Things You Should Not Do Before Going To Bed Tonight

Does your before bedtime ritual or routine consist of a snack, television, or checking email?

It is very easy to explain what should be done before hopping into bed, but rarely are we told what not to do. So what shouldn’t we be doing before bed that may be impacting not only the quality of our sleep, but at what time we get to bed and wake up?



1. Eat anything heavy

The last meal of your night should be at dinnertime, and it is suggested not to eat dinner past 7:00 PM because your body’s metabolism begins to slow down as it prepares for sleep. Many times people will have a craving for a snack pre-bedtime because they are still hungry after dinner. If this is the case, do not dive into the fridge to eat leftovers or into the cupboard for a quick and fatty snack. You do not want to fill yourself up before bedtime, only subdue the hunger until morning.

2. Exercise

Everyone has a busy schedule these days and finding time to fit in going to the gym can become more and more of a hassle. Exercising is a great source of energy in the body, releasing endorphins, adrenaline and a range of other hormones and chemicals to help make you feel great. Sometimes, the only option we have is to work out in the evening due to overscheduled days, and this is a big no-no. It is recommended to stop working out at least 3 hours before your bed time to allow your body to wind down and relax.

3. Television/Internet

Studies have shown that pre-slumber screen time can impede your body’s ability to fall asleep. The likely culprit? Well, the bright lights of these screens can hinder the development of melatonin, the hormone that promotes sleep. So close that laptop and turn off that TV about an hour before bed.

4. Take a Hot Shower/Bath

Like exercise, hot showers and baths can actually help you fall asleep. The problem, however, comes out of taking one too close to the time you plan on hitting the sack. Being overheated or sweating can make it difficult to sleep. Let your body cool down before heading off to bed.

5. Watch your fluids

Caffeine, of course, and alcohol both make it difficult to get a good night’s rest. But drinking a lot of any liquid within the last hour or two before you go to bed will lead to those dreaded late night bathroom breaks, and further disrupt your slumber. You shouldn’t go to bed thirsty, however, as you’ll likely wake up in the middle of the night to get a drink of water. Balance is key here.

6. Work

Whatever work or school issue it is, it can certainly wait until morning. Getting work done stimulates your brain and can cause you unneeded stress — pretty much the opposite of what you want to feel if you’re trying to fall asleep!

7. Have Serious Conversations

You’ve probably heard the phrase, “don’t go to bed angry.” And, as it turns out, it’s totally accurate! Research has shown that sleeping directly after a fight or traumatic experience will effectively preserve your emotions until you awake. The human body is adverse to falling asleep in dangerous situations — it’s a defense mechanism. Thus, you’ll have a much harder time falling asleep after a big blowout. It’s best to resolve conflicts before you hit the sack.

Blackdoctor