15 Things to Never Do Before Going to Bed

For good health, a quality night's rest is vital. Your pre-sleep routine significantly impacts your sleep quality. Be mindful of your habits to ensure restful sleep. Here are 15 things to avoid before bed.

Drink Caffeine

Caffeine, a stimulant found in coffee, tea, chocolate, and some meds, can keep you awake for hours. Consuming it close to bedtime can disrupt sleep.

Use Electronics

Blue light from devices like smartphones suppresses melatonin, affecting your sleep-wake cycle. Avoid electronics 30 minutes before bedtime for better sleep.

Eat Heavy Meals

Eating a big meal near bedtime can disrupt sleep, cause heartburn, indigestion, or nightmares. Try eating your last meal 2-3 hours before bed.

Take Alcohol

Alcohol may make you fall asleep faster, but it disrupts sleep quality and interferes with the REM stage, crucial for memory and learning.

Exercise Vigorously

Exercise improves overall health but vigorous workouts before bed can make sleep difficult. They raise body temperature and heart rate, making you alert and lively.

Take Nicotine

Nicotine is a stimulant that can affect sleep by making it hard to fall or stay asleep. It reduces deep sleep time, crucial for restoration, and its withdrawal effects can disrupt sleep.

Take Naps Late in the Day

Napping is a good for recharging, but long, late naps disrupt your natural sleep schedule and make it harder to sleep at night. Keep naps short (20-30 min) and avoid after 3 pm.

Drink Too Much Water

Staying hydrated is vital, yet too much water before bedtime can lead to frequent bathroom visits, interrupting sleep and making it hard to resume.

Have Stressful Conversations

Heated or stressful conversations before sleep can cause anxiety and trouble falling asleep. Try having these discussions earlier or manage stress in healthier ways.

Watch Late-Night Horror Movies

Watching intense films can raise heart rate and anxiety, making sleep difficult. Avoid them near bedtime and choose calming activities like reading a book.

Eat Spicy Foods

Spicy foods can cause heartburn, making it difficult to fall asleep. It can also increase your body temperature and lead to discomfort, making it harder to relax and drift off.

Work on Important Tasks

Avoid working on important or stressful tasks before bedtime to let your mind wind down. Dedicate time earlier in the day for these tasks for better sleep.

Take Certain Medication

Some meds can cause sleep issues. If facing trouble sleeping, consult your doctor about adjusting your medication timing.

Turn up the Heat

A cooler room promotes sleep. High heat can disrupt sleep. Keep your room between 60-67 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal sleep.

Let Your Pet on Your Bed

Resist the urge to let your furry friend slumber with you, as pets can disrupt sleep. To prevent interruptions, make a designated bed for your pet.

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