It is the basis for the proper functioning of the human body and has a major impact on health, concentration and mood. Conversely, its deficiency leads to a host of health problems, reduces memory, increases inflammation in the body and susceptibility to disease. In the last few years, it has become a much-discussed topic. An avalanche of conflicting information about what to (not) do about it and why has been pouring in from all sides.
This is not about some magic product with cleverly built PR, but about a tool that comes naturally to all of us – sleep. How do we make the most of it?
Exhale, calm down and sleep
One of the essentials of quality sleep is room temperature and air quality. A temperature between 16 and 20°C is best. Air quality depends on several factors – humidity, amount of dust (in the room and location). It is also influenced by the choice of plants in the room. There is no need to buy any special plants, even the (un)ordinary ficus tree can help to make the air cleaner.
An ambient scents also affect the humidity. Here too, there is no need to look for “miracle” solutions in the form of artificially scented mixtures. Just reach for herbs.
Sleep is particularly beneficial:
- Levandula
- Sage
- Chamomile
- Rosemary
Sleep and light – how to light properly?
Another equally essential key from the bundle that will lead you to success is the right light. It is light that has a greater effect on the human body than it may seem. As the sun sets, it is advisable to eliminate blue light (white light bulbs, screens) that prevent the proper flushing of melatonin. This hormone, commonly referred to as the sleep hormone, is dependent on the cycles of light and darkness. Depending on the amount of light we are exposed to, it controls our urge to sleep.
Bedside your bed, it is preferable to have light bulbs that emit dim warm light, preferably in shades of red or orange. These colours evoke the colour of fire, which in the past signalled to our ancestors that bedtime was approaching. You don’t have to remove white bulbs from your bedrooms. On the contrary, they wake up the human body, which is why it is advisable to light them in the morning after waking up.