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Sleep & Rest

How to Improve Your Sleep

Evidence-based strategies for better rest

Written by David K. Chen, PhD
10 min
How to Improve Your Sleep

Poor sleep affects mood, focus, and emotional regulation. According to the National Sleep Foundation, consistent sleep hygiene can dramatically improve mental health.

The 10-3-2-1-0 Rule

A popular evidence-based sleep hygiene method:

  • 10 hours before bed: No caffeine
  • 3 hours before bed: No food
  • 2 hours before bed: No work
  • 1 hour before bed: No screens
  • 0 — the number of times you hit snooze

Wind-Down Routine

Research shows that a consistent pre-sleep routine signals the brain that it’s time to rest.

Try this 20-minute routine:

Dim lights → Light stretching or breathing → Journal 3 things → No phone in bed

When to Seek Help

If you consistently struggle with falling or staying asleep, consider speaking with a doctor. Chronic insomnia is treatable.

Sources: National Sleep Foundation, Sleep Research Society

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