Traditionally observed on the first Monday in September, Labor Day pays tribute to the achievements and contributions of all American workers. Normally, most people will enjoy a three day weekend and hopefully enjoy time with friends and family. And, after an extended time working hard, Labor Day weekend is a great way to get some mental and physical rest before having to go back and give it your all again.
But, what about getting some rest after an average day’s hard work? As unusual as it sounds, it’s sometimes hard to shut your body down after working extra hard that particular day and get a good night’s rest. So, what’s happening? Why is it that, when you would think it should be easy to fall asleep, you just can’t after an extra strenuous day?
First things first, a great quality mattress, as you can find at Vermont Bedrooms, is a must. You need to establish the proper comfort and body support environment for a sleeping body. If you have any questions as to how you can match your body and sleeping type with the proper mattress, either visit the Vermont Bedrooms website or, if you’re in the Rutland, Vermont area, feel free to stop in and speak with one of our staff. We can match you with your ideal mattress environment.
One of the first things to explore is body temperature. Sleep onset has been linked with a decrease in core body temperature of around two degrees that begins about two hours prior to going to sleep. If you try to sleep right after a hard day’s work without giving your body time to cool down, sleep may be affected. The same thing if you try to sleep in an environment that is uncomfortably warm. Controlling the room’s air temperature and possibly sleeping on a temperature controlling mattress (see our website for available temperature control mattresses) helps immensely.
Hormones released after a hard strenuous day can sometimes interfere with sleep. Hormones such as Cortisol, while important as a stress hormone, sometimes inteferes with getting to sleep. Spending a few hours just resting without sleeping before getting into the bed is a great way for these hormones to clear away enough to allow sleep to happen naturally.
Many times, caffeine is an important aspect of a work day. But, too much caffeine can interfere with a good night’s sleep. Just keep in mind that caffeine can affect sleep, even if consumed as much as six hours before getting into bed. Try to decrease the amount of caffeinated drinks throughout the day, if possible.
Controlling the above conditions can go a long way to help get a good night’s sleep. While we can’t help you with your day’s stressors or what you put in your body, Vermont Bedrooms can help you with your mattress needs. Take a look at our offerings on our website or feel free to call us at 800-520-2337. Or, better yet, if you’re in the Rutland, Vermont area, please come in and speak with one of our staff. We would love to consult with you personally.
As for this year’s Labor Day, please have a fun and safe time with friends and family. Along with a great night’s sleep, they’re important, too.