How to Sleep Better: The Texas Guide to Sweet Dreams

Why do so many in Texas struggle with falling back to sleep and what can you do to get a better nights' rest in West Texas?

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The other night, I woke up to use the bathroom and couldn't fall back asleep. After tossing and turning for three hours, I jumped on my computer to find out why.

As it turns out, I'm not alone, many Texans are struggling with sleep this time of year.   The warmer spring temperatures are nearing the triple digits in west Texas, and the recent time change isn’t helping. Add in the constant pinging of emails and text messages from our phones, and it’s no wonder sleep is hard to come by.

Common Sleep Disruptors in Texas Homes

According to research, one major issue is overthinking, our brains never get a chance to power down. Another culprit? Our beloved phones. The blue light from screens, including phones, tablets, and computers, interferes with our body’s natural sleep patterns.

Light and sound also play a role. Keeping the room dark and quiet is key. I used to think leaving the TV on helped me drift off. Turns out, it does the opposite.

Then there’s alcohol. While it might help you fall asleep at first, it disrupts sleep later in the night, leaving you wide awake and staring at the ceiling.

Read More: The Shocking Health Risks of Daylight Saving Time for Texas!

Insomnia Is on the Rise in Texas

According to SleepFoundation.org, insomnia is one of the most common sleep disorders. It affects over 60% of Texans at some point, making it a widespread issue in our state.

Insomnia isn’t just about having trouble falling asleep, it can also be tied to serious health issues like chronic pain, heart disease, and diabetes. If it persists, it’s worth bringing up with your doctor.

Quick Sleep Fixes from the National Sleep Foundation

Here are the recommended steps that might help you get better sleep tonight:

• Use a good, supportive mattress
• Eliminate noise, make the room as quiet as possible
• Power down phones, laptops, and tablets
• Turn off all lights and darken the room
• Try deep breathing or the 4-7-8 technique (inhale 4 seconds, hold 7, exhale 8)
• Use white noise (find free versions on YouTube)
• Recite a calming poem or song silently to yourself
• Turn clocks away from view and remove ticking sounds
• Try PMR (Progressive Muscle Relaxation)
• Drink a cup of caffeine-free chamomile tea
• Avoid alcohol before bed
• Don’t smoke or vape before bedtime, it can increase alertness
  Sources: The National Sleep Foundation & TheHealthy.com

Final Thought: Texas, It's Time to Sleep

West Texas, if you're struggling to sleep, you're not alone. Poor sleep isn't just annoying, it can lead to chronic pain, heart disease, and other health problems. Let’s all make better sleep a priority, starting tonight.