The summer weather is finally here with Met Eireann forecasters predicting that the mercury is set to rise as high as 25 degrees, so getting enough sleep during the warm spell is important.
Most homes in Ireland aren't exactly the best equipped to deal with warm weather, so it can be a struggle for some people to get some much needed sleep. However, there are some handy little tips that can prove useful that may help you get a few hours shuteye during the hot spell.
So, here are our eight tips to help you get that much-needed kip during the heatwave this month.
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Drink water
One of the most effective ways to help you get some sleep is to drink some cold water before bed. The hotter your body temperature the less likely you are to fall asleep, so it's worth hydrating well in advance before you turn in for the night.
Chill your bedsheets
This technique might not be for everyone, but some people find that storing their bedsheets can help them to sweat less during the night and to fall asleep more easily. So, all you have to do is stick your bedsheets in the freezer or fridge for 5-10 minutes and then enjoy.
Take a warm shower before bed
This might sound counterproductive, but actually taking a warm shower will increase the blood flow to your skin which increases the heat leaving your body. While a cold shower might offer some relief for a few minutes, you'll start to sweat a lot as your body readjusts to the surrounding temperature.
Crack open the window
Preferably, leave the window open throughout the day and not just when you're heading to bed. Otherwise, the heat will have been building up in your room for the entire day.
Also, while many of us pet lovers allow our pets to share our bed at night, the fewer living creatures in your room will help you feel cooler as they all give off body heat.
Spread out
It's best to take up as much of the bed as possible when it's warm out, so spreading your arms out like a starfish is a technique tried and tested by many. The starfish position also helps to increase the air to your arms and legs, which reduces sweating.
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Hot water bottle filled with cool water
Fill a hot water bottle with iced water and place on the 'cooling points' of your body: knees, ankles, wrists, neck, groin and elbows. This can help reduce sweating and help you to fall asleep quicker.
Upgrade to 'summer pyjamas'
Ditching your favourite flannel pyjamas and investing in lighter nightwear to keep you cool can help you sleep better. The type of material you wear to bed can have an impact on regulating your body temperature as you sleep.
Instead of the thick and insulated materials, opt for 100% cotton, bamboo and silk. Cotton is very light-weight and allows good ventilation, while silk keeps you warm when it's cold and cool when the weather is hot.
Go Commando
If it's too hot under the covers, sleep in the nip on top of your duvet. Some people also find it to be quite liberating.
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