This post has been written in collaboration with Oz Mattresses
The importance of good, restful sleep cannot be overestimated. It is essential for both emotional and physical health. If you don’t get enough sleep each night, your immune system will suffer, as will your mood and attention span. You’ll find it harder to concentrate at work and your energy levels will drop. Sleep really is a tonic for the whole body. I have spoken before about how important it is that The Builder gets a good night sleep, every night.
So, you’ve got to make sure that your bedroom is designed to maximise it. This means investing in high-quality sheets, keeping the air well circulated and fresh, and sticking to a reasonably regular cycle. The good news is that there are all kinds of techniques you can use to improve the quality of your rest and make your bedroom an enjoyable place to spend time.
This guide to designing a healthy, soothing bedroom will help put you on the right track.
Get Yourself a Good Mattress
This is the single most important part of your bedroom. Without it, you can’t expect to have a great sleep that rests your entire body. Luckily, luxury foam mattresses are more affordable now than ever before. They are specially shaped and constructed to support your body in the most balanced and even way possible. In other words, you get full support, without those annoying pressure points forming and putting a strain on your joints and spine.
Use the Melon Ratio
If you haven’t heard of the melon ratio, you might want to give it a try. It essentially says that, for a peaceful and relaxed vibe, you shouldn’t keep decorative items that are smaller than a melon. They make the space look cluttered and clutter leads to an overactive mind. Give it a go and see if it works for you.
Pick Soothing, Calming Tones
Blue is the colour that human beings tend to find the most relaxing when trying to sleep. Your choice of shade shouldn’t be too dark, though; stick with fairly pale, light colours. Otherwise, the bedroom will feel oppressive and dark. Avoid purple and red, because these tones make it harder to fall asleep. For a very high end, luxury atmosphere, you could always opt for clean, crisp white.
Turn Your Alarm Around
Watching the clock is a fast track to a restless sleep. Set your alarm for the morning and then turn the clock to face the other way. If you can’t see it, you won’t stay up half the night watching the numbers tick over and worrying about how much time you have left. It is a simple trick, but it can make a big difference.
Install Blackout Liners
It is a really good idea to install blackout curtains or liners on your windows. These are used in all upmarket hotels and they block out substantially more external light than standard drapes. If you live in a built-up area or close to main roads and lots of street lamps, you may need a little extra help to keep the bedroom dark.
Invest in Soft Bedsheets
There are some indulgences that are worth the extra expense, particularly in the bedroom. For instance, bedsheets with a high thread count are not much more affordable than they used to be. Even very luxurious 1,000 thread count sheets, though pricey, are not an unattainable purchase. You could even save up and treat yourself on a special occasion. Beware, though; once you opt for total luxury, you’ll never go back to subpar bedding.
Why Your Bedroom Should Be a Cosy Little Paradise
You’re going to spend a third of your life in bed, so it makes perfect sense to invest time and money on making it feel inviting. Start with the essentials – a good mattress is key – and then work outwards towards more decorative items. Hang picture frames, add colourful scatter cushions, and make sure that your bedroom is a place that makes you smile.
Do you love your bedroom? Do your kids share your bed still? What colour are your bedroom walls?
Nicole xxx
I never heard of the melon rule – how interesting! And I love the idea about the alarm clock! Our bedroom walls are a creamy colour but we’re currently debating what shade of white to paint them. Watch this space!