Do you struggle to drift off at night and wake up feeling sluggish? Supporting your body’s ability to produce melatonin is one of the best ways to fall asleep naturally.
Melatonin, often referred to as the “sleep hormone,” is a key player in regulating our sleep-wake cycles. It signals to the body that it’s time to rest, helping us find the sweet spot between wakefulness and deep, restorative sleep. With these strategies for getting more sleep with natural melatonin, you’ll go to sleep quicker and wake up feeling more refreshed in the morning.
Get More Sunlight During the Day
Sunlight regulates your circadian rhythm, the body’s internal clock. Spending at least 20 to 30 minutes outdoors in natural light, especially in the morning, can send clear signals to your brain about when to wake and when to sleep.
Later in the evening, the sunlight you receive during the day can set the stage for a smoother transition into sleep. If getting outside isn’t an option, consider sitting near a bright, sunny window. You can also use a sun lamp when it’s darker outside.
Upgrade Your Diet
Nutrient-rich foods provide vitamins and minerals that support the body’s ability to produce melatonin. Cherries, for instance, contain small amounts of melatonin, while nuts like almonds provide magnesium that promotes relaxation—a key step before you can drift off.
Incorporating these foods into meals or snacks throughout your day can lead to noticeable changes in how quickly you fall asleep at night.
Move Your Body Regularly
Regular physical activity helps to regulate hormones that can otherwise interfere with your natural sleep patterns. Moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, swimming, or even yoga, can enhance the production of melatonin.
Just be sure to make time for exercise earlier in the day so your body has ample time to wind down, leaving you calm and prepared for restful sleep come evening.
Reduce Your Exposure to EMF Radiation
Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) come from devices like smartphones, Wi-Fi routers, and even lightbulbs. There’s recently been a growing awareness of the connection between EMF radiation and melatonin. It may interfere with your body’s natural ability to produce the hormone.
Reduce your EMF exposure by turning off devices an hour before bed, using airplane mode, and keeping electronics out of the bedroom to help your body stay aligned with its sleep rhythms.
Implement a Wind-Down Routine
Your body needs time to transition smoothly from high-energy activities to a state of full relaxation. To help this process, consider creating a consistent wind-down routine. This might include reducing screen time by turning off devices an hour before bed, practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or gentle stretching, or reading a calming book in dim lighting.
Feel More Rested and Recharged
When it comes to better sleep, small changes can yield big results. Start implementing these strategies for getting more sleep with natural melatonin today and wake up ready to tackle whatever the day brings.
