Sleeping cool is sleeping healthy. A combination of what you do before bed as well as once you're in it can lead to a better night's sleep.
Studies have shown that the ideal sleeping temperature is between 60-67 degrees Fahrenheit. When our body temperature is too high, it disrupts the natural sleep cycle. A restless night's sleep stops the brain from entering the important REM cycle.
Another benefit of sleeping cool is that it can help reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation results in a variety of health conditions including heart disease and diabetes. Sleeping in a cool environment decreases inflammation by reducing the body's core temperature. The same thing takes place when you hurt a muscle, putting ice on it to stop the swelling and inflammation.
Sleeping cool can also help improve the skin's appearance. When we sleep, our body goes into repair mode, and this is when the skin's cells regenerate. When you sleep in a colder environment, your body increases its blood flow to the surface of the skin. That increased blood flow brings oxygen and nutrients which are good for the skin. It improves the skin's elasticity and reduces the appearance of wrinkles.
The best of all: sleeping cool can also help with weight loss. Studies have shown that when we sleep in a cool environment, the body burns more calories as it works to keep us warm. This can lead to a boost in the metabolism and an increase in weight loss.
So how do we sleep cool?
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Lower the temperature of the room. Bring it down 3 or 4 degrees lower than the daytime temperature.
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Take a warm shower, bath, hot tub, or sauna session for no more than 20 minutes about an hour before you fall asleep.
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Use a breathable material for your sheets such as cotton or other natural fibers
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DONT SLEEP IN SWEATPANTS AND A SWEATSHIRT
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Trapping heat close to our bodies makes it harder for them to self-regulate. Your hands and feet may be cold but your back and groin are hot. Your brain is getting mixed signals on if it should heat up or cool down.
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Wear Pajama Hammocks to bed. Our cooling technology wicks moisture from your body and keeps your *ehem* technical equipment from heating up too much.
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Don't fear the blankets. Keeping the air temperature cool but piling on the blankets is the way to go. By not wearing heavy clothing you build a balanced atmosphere for your body. Your head will take into account the air temperature of the room and adjust accordingly. It's about creating a consistent atmosphere. Heavy blankets have shown great results in reducing sleep anxiety too.
In conclusion, sleeping cool is healthy. It makes your sleep more restful, reduces inflammation, makes your skin glow, and burns more calories. By keeping the sleeping environment cool, you can get the restful night's sleep you need to feel refreshed and energized in the morning.