Getting a good night’s rest can be a challenge in many situations. Whether in an unfamiliar hotel room or traveling abroad, getting the sleep you need can be challenging.
New research shows that sleeping in a new place can make it harder for you to fall asleep. This is called the first-night effect.
Get Your Blood Pumping
The average adult heart pumps about 5 quarts of blood every minute throughout your body to ensure that all of your cells get oxygen and nutrients. Proper heart function is essential for your body to function correctly and stay healthy. The right side of your heart receives de-oxygenated blood from around the body and sends it to your lungs to pick up more oxygen. This blood then returns to the left side of your heart to be pumped to all your cells, tissues, and organs again. To pump efficiently, your heart needs to have valves that help control blood flow. Without these valves, the blood would slosh through and out of your ventricles each time you tried to pump it.
Stay in Your Comfort Zone
Getting a decent night’s sleep can be difficult if you’ve ever traveled or slept in an unknown location. This is due to the brain’s attempt to keep you conscious until it determines that you are secure. This process is known as the “first-night effect,” and it’s a natural part of your brain’s ability to protect itself from harm. But, it also can mess up your sleep routine if you don’t learn to overcome your anxiety and fear.
The best way to acclimate is to make sure you’re constantly pushing yourself out of your comfort zone. This will help you develop new skills and experience different cultures.
Leaving your comfort zone requires much courage, but you can start by taking small steps that make it feel less intimidating. This will also allow you to build up your confidence.
Keep Your Sleep Routine
A decent night’s sleep is essential for maintaining health and feeling comfortable, So keeping your sleep routine as consistent as possible is a great idea. This can include following a regular bedtime and waking up time every day, including weekends. A schedule helps you entrain your internal clock and get the needed rest. The same routine also ensures you release melatonin correctly to help you fall asleep.
If you’re traveling and have trouble falling asleep, keep a few things in mind to help. For starters, don’t drink caffeine or have a snack within three hours of bedtime.
