Bad sleeping patterns are a very common thing amongst students especially, and  many TALK students experience such problems with their sleep patterns when they are studying abroad. Sleep deprivation can be a result of stress, anxiety, and physical problems, BUT there are many strategies that will enable you to sleep better at college, and to sleep better in a strange new environment. Here are some sleep tips you can try to help you get a better night’s rest.

Never Oversleep

Oversleeping can make you feel extra tired, believe it or not. Try to get up at the same time everyday even on the weekends too. Even when sleeping late for 1 to 2 days it can reset your body clock and cause problems with your sleep.

Set your Body Clock

Your body clock is restarted by light, so when you first get up sit in the sunlight or let the light shine through your windows. You can also turn on the light and walk around for a few minutes. This will help to wake you up and restart your body clock for a new day.

Develop a Bedtime Routine

Studies have shown that if you go to bed every night around the same time you are more likely to be able to sleep better. An hour or so before bed, try to wind your mind down by relaxing in ways that do this for you, and by staying away from stimulating triggers.

List of To Dos

Next to your bed keep a pencil and pad handy and jot down anything that you need to remember. Once you have written it down you can let it go and allow your mind to rest.

Exercise

During the day, try to keep yourself physically active, especially if you have had a bad night’s sleep. When you exercise you tend to become more restful and ready for bed because you have made yourself tired. Simple exercises that can be done are squash, jogging, swimming, and brisk walking.

Avoid Stimulation Triggers

In the late afternoon try to avoid stimulation triggers including caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, and colas. By eliminating these from your afternoon regime you will be able to sleep better.

Relax and Stretch

Gentle stretching before getting into bed can help to induce sleep. Work out a low stimulated stretching regime that can help to shut your mind and body down ready for sleep.