It’s February—how are you doing with your New Year’s resolutions?
While it’s no secret Americans struggle each year to keep their New Year’s resolutions, one key toward helping them stick to their goals may be right on their pillows. Sleep.
“Adding better sleep to your list of New Year’s resolutions can make it easier to reach some of the other goals on your list, whether that’s exercise, getting fit or even losing weight,” said Lissa Coffey, a lifestyle expert and spokeswoman for the Better Sleep Council, the consumer-education arm of the International Sleep Products Association. “It seems so simple, but getting adequate rest can positively impact every other part of your life. When you’re well-rested, it’s easier to choose healthier foods and to feel energized to exercise.”
According to a recent BSC survey, nearly nine out of 10 (88%) of Americans considered making New Year’s resolutions. They included:
- Exercise more/get fit (53%)
- Get/stay fit and healthy (49%)
- Lose weight (46%)
- Spend less/save more (42%)
- Enjoy life to the fullest (37%)
- Get organized (31%)
- Start a budget (28%)
- Get more/better sleep (27%)
- Spend more time with family and friends (27%)
- Read more (19%)
- Learn a new hobby (19%)
- Stop smoking (14%)
- Drink less alcohol (8%)
Interestingly, the 27% of respondents who said they pledged to get more/better sleep also reported other health-related goals, including exercising and staying healthy.
Those who wanted to prioritize sleep in 2018 planned to do so by getting to bed earlier (65%), maintaining a consistent bedtime (62%) and having new nighttime routines (53%). Almost half of those surveyed said they also plan to upgrade their sleep environment by purchasing a new mattress or other bed-related items.
To help people sleep more soundly—and make health a priority in 2018—share these BSC suggestions with consumers: Go to bed at the same time and wake up at the same time every day; create a great bed for great sleep; keep the bedroom cool, even in the winter; and try yoga before bed to de-stress.
