Just like you, we are always looking for ways to keep ourselves and our family busy and active as we adjust to the new normal of “Stay home. Stay healthy”. Every day we are giving you a list of 14 things to keep us sharp, in shape, stimulated, busy, or entertained during these unprecedented times. Do one a day for 14 days, or tackle the entire list at once. Just make sure to check back every day for something new.

Our health and welfare are our most important assets. One of the largest factors in our overall health is our quality of sleep. A good night’s sleep can improve your mood, immune system, and make your brain function better. Today, we’d like to share with you 14 ways to fall asleep faster and sleep better.

  1. Sleep in a Cold Room – It’s best to sleep in a room that’s slightly cold (60-75 degrees). If the weather makes that challenging, try taking a cool shower before bedtime.
  2. Have a Set Bedtime – If you go to sleep at different times every night, your body can’t adjust properly. If you go to bed every night at the same time, you body will be prepared for a good night’s sleep.
  3. Use Blackout Curtains – Light creeping into your room while your sleeping can interrupt your circadian rhythm. Use blackout curtains and keep the lights off to help you stay asleep throughout the night.
  4. Limit Caffeine During the Day – Stop drinking caffeine after 12pm. It can take your body a long time to metabolize caffeine, so if you’re going to drink it, drink it early.
  5. Turn off the TV and Put Down Your Phone – The blue light produced by televisions and phones interrupt your body’s natural sleep rhythm. Turn them off 30 minutes before bedtime. Instead, read a book, take a bath, practice some yoga, or start preparing for tomorrow.
  6. Avoid Naps During the Day – Naps will only make it harder to sleep at night. If you’re feeling tired, try to make it to bedtime.
  7. Stop Eating After Dinner – Eating too close to bedtime can cause insulin spikes that will interfere with your quality of sleep.
  8. Exercise During the Day – Try to stay active during the day and get your body moving. Check out this article for some creative ideas to get some exercise at home.
  9. Clean Your Room – Your bedroom should be a space of relaxation. Trying to sleep in a messy room is bad for your sleep and bad for your health.
  10. Make Your Bed Comfortable – Take the time to have a truly comfortable bed. Keep the sheets clean (they should be changed weekly), use comfortable blankets, and as many pillows as you need.
  11. Try Aromatherapy – Scents like lavender, vanilla, jasmine, and rose can calm your nerves and help you relax before bedtime.
  12. Make Some Tea Before Bed – A nice cup of herbal tea can help you relax and could push away any sugar cravings before bed. Try peppermint, chamomile, or vanilla.
  13. Read Before Bed – Pick up a paper book and escape your world for a few moments before bedtime.
  14. Think Happy Thoughts – While you’re laying down, don’t go through tomorrow’s to-do list. You can do that in the morning. Instead, think of the things that make you happy. Maybe that’s a pleasant memory, images of your family, or just the thought of puppies playing. Either way, just think happy thoughts.

We know things are stressful right now, and you may be worried about your finances. We have solutions available through our Member Assistance Program, designed to support you. We have a range of resources, such as an Emergency Loan Program, Skip-a-Pay, and our Visa Credit Card special, that can help those who have been impacted.