Grandma was onto something when she told you to wear socks to bed. In Nordic countries, staying cozy before sleep is part of the tradition of “hygge,” which embraces warmth and comfort as essential for restful nights. The body’s sleep-wake cycle is closely linked to core temperature changes.
During the day, body temperature peaks in the late afternoon and early evening. At night, it gradually drops, signaling the body to prepare for sleep. A cool sleeping environment supports deeper, more restorative sleep.
Watkins explained that keeping the room cooler aligns with the body’s natural cooling process, making falling and staying asleep easier. Optimize your bedroom to prevent heat buildup during the day. Lower the thermostat before bed.
Choose cooler bedding materials. If you’re looking to cut heating costs, cracking a window may help. Additionally, choose cotton or wool bed socks (they’re breathable and comfortable), and avoid synthetic fabrics that trap heat.
You can also add calming essential oils like lavender or chamomile to your foot bath for extra relaxation. Optimizing your sleep environment isn’t just about warming your feet or adjusting the thermostat occasionally; it’s about consistency. Small, regular changes to your routine can lead to better sleep quality night after night.
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