Consider:
- Writing tomorrow’s tasks down before bed
- Limiting stressful work late at night
- Practicing slow breathing
- Keeping your bedroom dark and quiet
- Avoiding checking the time repeatedly
The goal is to reduce the amount of mental stimulation surrounding bedtime.
3. Alcohol May Be Interrupting Your Sleep
Some people believe alcohol helps them sleep because it can make them feel relaxed and sleepy initially.
But falling asleep quickly isn’t the same as getting good-quality sleep.
Alcohol can alter normal sleep architecture and may contribute to awakenings later in the night as its effects change.
You may therefore fall asleep easily after drinking but wake several hours later.
Alcohol can also worsen:
- Snoring
- Sleep apnea
- Reflux
- Dehydration
- Nighttime urination
If you repeatedly wake around the same time after drinking alcohol in the evening, the timing may not be a coincidence.
Try observing whether your sleep changes on nights when you don’t drink.
4. Caffeine From Earlier in the Day May Still Be Affecting You
Caffeine can remain in the body for hours.
