Many studies have found that having a positive outlook may carry several health benefits, including a lower risk for cardiovascular disease and an increased lifespan. Now, new research suggests that optimistic people get a better night's sleep than their pessimistic counterparts.
Keep reading to learn more about these recent studies and other tips you can explore to get better sleep.
Optimistic People May Benefit from Better Sleep
A new study conducted by researchers at the Medical University of Vienna found that optimistic people are 70% less likely to deal with insomnia or sleep disorders than pessimistic people. The researchers surveyed 1,004 Austrians about their sleep habits and other factors, including their work situation and behaviors before bedtime.
The researchers also measured the participants' optimism via a validated test. They found that participants who had high optimism scores were generally older, healthier, happier, and exercised more than those who had lower optimism scores.
Jacob Weitzer, the lead author, states that people can boost optimism levels through various exercises, such as the "Best Possible Self" method. Weitzer explains, "This involves trying to imagine an ideal and writing down how one's best possible life could look in the future. After several weeks of regular practice, it can help to increase an individual's level of optimism."
It's still uncertain how increasing optimism improves slumber. However, a recent study from the University of Urbana-Champaign suggests that optimistic people might have better-coping skills to deal with stress, which can influence sleep quality.
How to Get Better Sleep
Being optimistic may help you sleep better and longer, but you can also try other things to improve your slumber. Consider these tips to get better sleep:
- Exercise regularly — A consistent workout routine can help you sleep better. According to John Hopkins Medicine, moderate aerobic exercise can boost slow-wave sleep — the sleep stage where the body and mind rejuvenate. Should you exercise before bedtime? Healthline suggests that performing light to moderate activity about 90 minutes before bed shouldn't affect your sleep.
- Keep a consistent sleep schedule — Wake up and go to sleep at the same time each day — even on the weekend. Sticking with a regular sleep schedule can help regulate your body's internal clock, making it easier to fall and stay asleep.
- Turn off electronic devices before bed — Avoid staring at phones, computers, tablets, and TVs an hour before bed. The blue light emitting from those screens stimulates your brain, making it harder for you to fall asleep.
- Keep your bedroom cool — According to the National Sleep Foundation, the ideal temperature for sleep is somewhere around 65 degrees. If you don't have allergies, consider turning a fan onto circulate the cool air.
- Limit alcohol intake — While alcohol may help you fall asleep faster, you're not getting quality ZZZs. Drinking too much alcohol before bed can block REM sleep and disrupt your circadian rhythm.
- Create a relaxing bedtime routine — There are plenty of ways to relax before hitting the hay, such as practicing yoga, meditating, and taking a warm bath.
- Get cooling sheets — Bedding like SHEEX Original Performance Sheet Set can make a massive difference in the way you sleep. Our moisture-wicking sheets breathe 10x better than traditional cotton sheets, ensuring a restorative night's sleep without waking up hot or sweaty.
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