A good night’s sleep is more than just a luxury — it’s a vital part of your overall health. Poor sleep can affect your mood and your energy and elevate your risk for serious conditions like heart disease and diabetes. At Haskell Memorial Hospital’s Sleep Study Center, we see every day how quality rest can transform a patient’s health. While some sleep disorders require testing and treatment, there are practical steps everyone can take right at home to start improving your sleep tonight.
Stick to a Schedule
Your body thrives on routine. Try going to bed and waking up at the same time every day — even on weekends. This helps regulate your internal clock and can make falling asleep easier.
Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment
Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. Use blackout curtains if needed and remove electronic devices that can disrupt your rest. A comfortable mattress and pillow can also make a big difference.
Watch What You Eat and Drink
Avoid caffeine late in the day and steer clear of heavy meals before bedtime. Alcohol may make you feel sleepy, but it can disrupt the deeper stages of your sleep cycle.
Power Down Before Bed
Blue light from phones, tablets, and TVs can interfere with your body’s natural sleep hormones. Try reading, stretching, or listening to calming music instead of scrolling before bedtime.
Get Moving During the Day
Regular physical activity promotes better sleep. Even a short daily walk can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper rest.
“Healthy sleep is a cornerstone of good health, but it’s often the first thing people sacrifice,” said Heather Waters, BSRC, CRT, director of the Haskell Memorial Hospital Sleep Center. “For those who struggle despite making lifestyle changes, our sleep studies can identify underlying disorders such as sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome. Once we know what’s happening during the night, we can connect patients with treatments that truly change their quality of life.”
The STOP-BANG questionnaire is a simple screening tool that helps identify your risk for sleep apnea. It’s quick, easy, and available now on the Haskell Memorial Hospital Sleep Center webpage. Once you’ve completed the quiz, you can use your results to start a meaningful conversation with your primary care provider about whether a sleep study might be right for you.
If you’ve tried healthy sleep habits and still wake up feeling tired, it may be time to take the next step. Ask your primary care provider about a referral to Haskell Memorial Hospital’s Sleep Study Center. We’re here to help you rest easier — and live healthier.
