Sleep experts share tips to help you beat the heat and maximise your melatonin
On an average night, one in five Australians struggle to get enough sleep, but throw in the sweltering summer heat and you've got the perfect conditions for a restless sleep and what can only be described as a 'heat hangover'.
The latest research from leading sleep exerts Sealy shows that women are more susceptible to external factors at bedtime such as temperature, with 41% waking up during the night due to being too hot or too cold, compared to 35% of men.
While there are a number of ways to beat the heat this summer (think: avoiding caffeine before bedtime and freezing your sheets) investing in a quality mattress with temperature management technology is a sure-fire way to keep cool.
Sealy's Research and Development Manager Daniel Green said temperature is a key variable in achieving a comfortable night's sleep.
"We've worked hard to develop and perfect the Sealy Smart Fabric Treatment which is a key feature in all our Posturepedic mattresses," he said.
"It's the only scientifically validated technology that we have been able to identify which provides long-term heat management."
And with all Sealy mattresses designed using an open coil system, which enables airflow through the spring unit which may help to disperse heat away from the body, they are designed to provide a more comfortable sleep environment year-round.
"It's important if people are concerned with heat, that they purchase a mattress that won't envelope the body. If the body sinks too far into a mattress, the air won't be able to circulate around the body.
Keen to know what other hacks can maximise your zzz's this summer? See Sealy's top tips below.
1. DIY air conditioning
Create an A/C replacement by placing a bowl of ice in front of your floor fan and directing the icy breeze towards your bed. The cool air should blow over you and cool you down while you sleep. (Did we mention saving $$$ on your power bills?)
2. Sleeping alone
Now this may sound odd, but choosing to sleep alone will avoid the sharing of body heat. Take this one step further by sleeping in a spread eagle position (yes, you read correctly…) with none of your limbs touching to avoid transferring heat from your own body.
3. Choose the right sheets
Contrary to popular belief, high-thread count sheets often retain the most heat and make summer sleeping even more difficult. Dress your bed with light-coloured cotton sheets to create a breathable environment.
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