Achieving Better Sleep: Why Room Temperature Matters

As we get older, getting enough good sleep becomes even more important for staying healthy. Dr. Kelvas, a sleep expert, explains that the temperature of your room can greatly affect how well you sleep.

According to the Sleep Foundation, the best room temperature for quality sleep is between 60 °F (15.5 °C) and 68 °F (20 °C). If your room is too hot or too cold, your body can struggle to manage the hormones needed for deep sleep.

Our bodies are naturally good at regulating temperature. We sweat to cool down and shiver to warm up. Blood vessels also expand and contract to help control our body temperature based on what’s around us.

When we sleep, the temperature plays a key role. As your body cools, it helps you enter deep sleep, which is vital for your health. But a warm room can prevent this and make it harder to stay in REM sleep, a stage that’s essential for recovery. High humidity can make things worse by interfering with your body’s natural cooling system.

Why a Cooler Room is Better for Sleep

Sleeping in a cooler room has several benefits. It helps your body release melatonin, the hormone that makes you feel sleepy. Cooler temperatures also reduce cortisol, a stress hormone that can mess with your sleep. Cooler rooms make it easier to get more REM and deep sleep, which are important for both physical and mental recovery.

A cool room can also activate brown fat, which helps with weight management and can reduce the risk of diabetes. Some studies even suggest that sleeping in a cold room might protect against Alzheimer’s disease.

Even if you don’t have a thermostat, there are simple ways to improve your sleep:

• Take a warm shower or bath before bed to cool down your body.
• Use light and breathable bedding to keep cool.
• Open windows or use a fan for better air circulation.

These small steps can greatly improve your sleep.

The right room temperature can greatly improve your sleep quality. A cooler room helps you sleep faster, stay in deep sleep longer, and support your overall health. Adjust your room tonight and enjoy better sleep!