This May Be The Best Temperature Range For Sleep, According To A Study
Sleep is a vital component of our daily lives, playing a crucial role in our overall health and well-being. As such, the quality of sleep we get can be influenced by various factors, including the temperature of our sleeping environment. Recent research points to the existence of an ideal temperature range that could help promote better sleep.
According to the National Sleep Foundation, the best bedroom temperature for sleep is approximately 60-67 degrees Fahrenheit (15.6-19.4 degrees Celsius). Studies suggest that this temperature range facilitates the decrease in core body temperature that is associated with initiating sleep. When your sleeping environment is too hot or too cold, it can interrupt the natural thermoregulation process, which can lead to restlessness and ultimately affect sleep quality.
The study indicates that cooler temperatures may help facilitate the onset of sleep due to the natural drop in body temperature that occurs as part of our circadian rhythm. The slight drop signals to our body that it’s time to sleep, and maintaining a room within this cooler range may therefore help align with the body’s natural tendency.
Moreover, this optimal temperature range supports the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep stage, which is a critical component of the sleep cycle when the most restorative processes take place including memory consolidation and mood regulation. Overheating can disrupt REM sleep, hence maintaining a cool but comfortable atmosphere aids uninterrupted REM cycles.
Understanding individual preferences is also important since comfort levels can vary from person to person based on their usual tendencies. However, this general temperature guideline serves as a useful starting point for most individuals looking to enhance their sleep patterns.
While adjusting your thermostat within this range is one way to achieve an ideal sleeping climate, other strategies include using breathable bedding materials, keeping windows open for natural ventilation (if it’s safe and practical), and avoiding heavy blankets that might trap heat.
In conclusion, if you’re struggling with getting a good night’s rest, take a moment to assess your bedroom’s temperature. Adjusting it to be within 60-67 degrees Fahrenheit might just be the change you need to improve your sleep quality and wake up feeling rested and rejuvenated each morning.