Numerous studies have shown that getting enough sleep is an important of staying healthy, happy, and productive. However, a third of the adult population in the United States is believed to suffer from occasional insomnia, meaning that a number of people are likely missing out on these necessary benefits. But what could be responsible for this lack of sleep? Stress? Your diet? Your mattress? According to psychologists, the true culprit may be your surroundings. Follow these tips to help your bedroom become a place of relaxation instead of endless tossing and turning.

Reduce Light
Humans are designed to sleep when the sun disappears, but research shows that few people ever actually see true darkness in the modern world, especially if they live in urban or suburban areas. For this reason, interior decorators often recommend using window treatments that can help block outdoor light, such as window blinds and drapes. Drapery is an especially popular choice, as the heavy fabric drastically reduces the amount of light that can enter the room when they are drawn while simultaneously complimenting your bedroom’s decor. Experts also suggest that you keep mobile phones, tablets, and televisions out of the room: while constant connection is a normal part of modern life, the artificial light these provide can disrupt your sleep cycle and keep your brain activated, preventing you from establishing a normal sleep cycle.

Keep Noise Levels Low
Whether you live in a city or the country, silence is likely a rare commodity due to traffic and other factors. Once again, window treatments can help: by investing in drapery or curtains, you can block out a significant amount of these noises effectively and stylishly. Sleep experts also recommend using a fan or white noise machine to create white noise that will drown out distractions.

Don’t Forget the Temperature
Studies suggest that cool temperatures can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Additionally, changes in your body’s thermal regulation can wake you. For these reasons, set your thermostat for a comfortably low temperature. Once again, window treatments can also help your sleep by preventing thermal energy from escaping through the window glass, while also preventing hot air from entering during the summer.

A Relaxing Decor Can Help
While a good mattress is often key, a relaxing space can also be extremely helpful at encouraging restful sleep. Begin by simplifying the space: remove disturbing elements like televisions, computers, exercise equipment and other distractions. Next, replace them with calming elements such as artwork, area rugs, and an organized furniture layout. Also try to add calming colors like blue, greens and purples when choosing comforters, drapery, and paint.

Missing even one good night of rest can hurt your ability to concentrate, affect your mood, and cause drowsiness. For this reason, getting a good 8 hours of healthy, restful sleep is extremely important to your daily life. Try out these simple decor tips today to see if your sleep improves! Get more on this here.