Most conversations about good sleep tend to focus on the quantity of sleep and whether you get the recommended number of hours a night. This is a valid way of approaching the subject, however it can miss a huge component of great rest. While the total time slept is important, sleep continuity (being able to sleep without interruptions), is also critical. It is important to notice the symptoms of interrupted sleep, as well as know what you can do to address the issue if you are experiencing it.
Interrupted sleep can leave you feeling groggy during the daytime, not matter how many hours of total sleep you were able to get. Studies help prove this relationship, with research showing that subjective ratings of sleep quality and sleep continuity correlate with one another. Interrupted sleep can contribute to insomnia, daytime sleepiness, and other consequences related to insufficient sleep such as accidents in operating machinery.
Addressing the symptoms of interrupted sleep is most effective when you can identify the root cause. However, if the reasons for your interruptions are unknown to you, there are some general practices for a healthy routine that can help. Firstly, making sure your sleep hygiene is in good shape is crucial. Sleep hygiene is a broad term which encompasses having a daily routine and bedroom environment that is conducive to great rest. Secondly, ensure that your mattress is the right one for your needs. At Milton Sleep Co, we have a variety of mattresses in various levels of firmness and softness that can complement your sleep position and ideal type of comfort. Thirdly, getting into a routine of when you go to bed and when you wake up is important. Following through on that routine on all days of the week – including weekends – can help keep your circadian rhythm consistent.