It is often said that the kitchen is the heart of a home. There, families gather, entertain and prepare for the week ahead. While this is an integral part of a home, one might argue that the bedroom is the most crucial. This is because bedrooms are spaces designed for optimal comfort, relaxation, and re-energizing. Getting a good night’s sleep can be challenging when a bedroom does not radiate these feelings. As anyone who has struggled with insomnia knows, disrupted or otherwise inadequate sleep can truly hurt all areas of your life. To avoid this common pitfall, consider these bedroom design tips for sound sleep:
1. Consider Your Mattress
Mattresses are one of the most essential pieces of furniture you will purchase in your lifetime. You will sleep on one every night, and they are designed to last for many years, meaning you likely won’t buy many of them. There is a wide range of choices regarding mattresses, and people seem evenly divided between wanting a plush mattress and a firm one. Because of this, you should take your time when buying a new mattress to ensure that it meets your needs and preferences.
This is a complicated debate for couples with alternate preferences. In these cases, choosing a middle-of-the-road option like a medium-firm mattress can be helpful. If you’re unsure, visiting a mattress store can give you a feel for different mattress types and dimensions. The mattress size or bed frame dimensions can set the tone for the rest of the decor in your bedroom, as well as how much space you have available while sleeping. For some, a full-sized bed may be cozier, while others want the freedom of a king-sized bed. In either case, take your time and explore your options before committing.
2. Focus on Lighting
One of the best ways to create a space conducive to a good night of sleep is to consider the lighting. Many people make the mistake of using traditional light bulbs or bright light fixtures in their bedrooms. This helps locate items in the early evening hours, but bright lights can prevent your body from shutting down in the moments before you go to sleep. Instead, consider adding in light fixtures that allow you to dim the lights or adjust the color temperature throughout the evening. Gradually dim the lights or opt for a softer color as bedtime approaches. Once you are ready to go to sleep, turn off all of the lights as light can be a distraction.
3. Set Up Separate Work and Entertainment Spaces
For many people, the bedroom doubles as an entertainment and sleep space. They may lay in bed for hours catching up on their favorite television shows, responding to e-mails, or reading. In reality, it’s best to avoid these activities in bed. Try to finish these things before going to bed so that your body only associates the bedroom with sleeping. This can help you to wind down after a long day. The blue light emitted from laptops, reading devices, or smartphones can make sleeping difficult. Studies also show that social media platforms like Snapchat can harm our mental health.
If you can’t avoid bringing devices or other distractions into the bedroom altogether, set up a space specifically to get these tasks done. For example, add a desk on the other side of the room if your mattress dimensions allow it. Likewise, this can be an excellent spot to charge your devices at night as you will not be tempted to reach for them throughout the night.
4. Use Calming Colors and Designs
Traditionally, the color navy blue is believed to be the most calming shade. This often goes hand in hand with the soothing nature of the ocean, rain, and nature. That being said, calm and relaxing can mean different things depending on who you ask. Since this is your bedroom, consider what you find calming and comfortable before designing your sleep space. Whether that is a medium-firm mattress and silk sheets or a plush bed frame with flannel bedding, everyone’s preferences are different.
If you prefer symmetrical patterns, consider designs that align with your preferences. If the color yellow instantly puts you at ease, paint your room a cheery yellow hue. The same goes for your linens and other inclusions. Be sure to incorporate what you love into your bedroom while also considering practical measures like your bed frame dimensions to create the ultimate space for a sound sleep.
Perfect Bedroom, Perfect Sleep
While incorporating these bedroom design tips can help you get a better night of sleep, there may be more to your insomnia than your mattress. If you are struggling to sleep, it may be helpful to implement a series of mental and physical changes into your daily regime.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
