The Healthy Home - The Bedroom

Are you waking up still tired?

Do you tend to eat or drink right before bed?

The Bedroom - Our most comfy room

Given we spend one-third of our lives sleeping it's important to find out what is the optimal amount right for you. Sleep quality is also as important as the quantity thus consider your habits and environment as well.

Lighting

As darkness approaches light-sensitive ganglion cells in the retinas of our eyes send a message to our brains that it’s time for sleep – time for the pineal gland to begin producing the hormone melatonin that regulates our sleep-wake cycle.

Temperature

If it's too hot or cold the body signals a wake-up call. For most people, cooler temperatures are better to help you settle in and maintain a better night's sleep.

Air Quality

We spend 90% indoors. The air inside could be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air. Use air purifiers or open windows to circulate the air.

Mattress

Memory foam and innerspring mattresses generally contain fire retardant chemicals and can release VOC's (volatile organic compounds) harmful to our body.

Bedding and Clothing

Consider the bedding and clothing you own. Synthetic fibers pose health hazards as they contain chemicals that are in direct contact with our skin and can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled. Whenever possible stay away from acrylic, polyester, acetate, and nylon. Try natural alternatives such as wool, cotton, silk or hemp.

Fragrances

Manufacturers combine chemicals to create scents we enjoy. However, the skin absorbs the residue from detergents, fabric softeners and perfumes left behind.

The chemicals used to make fragrances are synthetic compounds derived from petroleum with known toxins. These chemicals are added to health and beauty aids, laundry soaps, conditioners, household cleaners, solvents and candles.

Dry-Cleaning

Reconsider frequent dry cleaning. The process is neither dry nor clean. It is a wet process where clothes are soaked in a stain-removing solvent. The stains will be gone but your clothes will be soiled with toxic chemicals covering your body.

Factors that affect sleep quality

Physical activity helps us achieve better rest.

A phone call, movie or surfing the internet could keep your mind racing when it should be shutting down.

Late night eating could cause sleep-disturbing digestion issues. Limit caffeine intake and avoid drinking more than two cups per day. Refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages at least an hour before bed.

Electromagnetic Fields (EMFs)

With the rise in technology exposure to EMFs has increased. Every electronic whether it is an alarm clock, heating pad, light, iPod, cell phone, computer, Wi-Fi, television and power outlets are creating EMF (even when shut off) with which your body and all of its cells are bombarded with.

Conclusion

Consider whether there are any changes that you can make to your habits and sleeping environment in order to enhance the quantity and quality of your sleep. It can help you live longer and better.

How many hours of sleep do you think your body needs?

Are there items surrounding you that can be contributing to bad sleep? 

Sources: The Healthy Home by Dr. Myron Wentz & Dave Wentz

If you have missed any of the articles in our series or our videos not to worry click below:


The Bedroom:              Video
The Bathroom:   Blog  Video
The Kitchen:       Blog  Video
Living Areas:      Blog  Video
Garage & Yard:  Blog  Video

The Healthy Way Vibes – Health Warriors

Please comment below, like, and share