Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for optimal health, productivity, and overall well-being, however, sometimes it can be difficult to get the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Although sleep aids can come in many forms, from pillows and mattresses to herbal teas and supplements, there are too many on the market and it can be overwhelming to choose the right ones.

Therefore, let’s explore six of the most popular sleep aids on the market and how they work to help you get a good night’s sleep.

Weighted blankets

One of the most popular sleep aids on the market is the weighted blanket which is designed to provide deep-pressure touch stimulation since it has been shown to help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. The pressure from the blanket also helps to increase the release of serotonin which is a natural calm-inducing hormone.

On the other hand, a study published in 2018 found that there was no significant difference in sleep quality between those who used a weighted blanket and those who didn’t. However, the participants who used the weighted blanket did report feeling more relaxed before bedtime.

Earplugs

Ear plugs are another popular sleep aid as they can help to block out noise and create a sense of calm and relaxation. They are also great for people who live in bustling cities or have roommates or a snoring spouse that can make it difficult to get a good night’s sleep.

There are many different types of earplugs on the market, from foam earplugs to silicone earplugs, and it’s important to choose the right type for you. There are special noise cancelling ear plugs that are designed to block out specific frequencies of sound, like snoring, and they can be very effective. Foam ear plugs are great for blocking out noise but can be uncomfortable to wear for long periods, whereas silicone ear plugs are more comfortable but may not block out noise as effectively.

Eye masks

Eye masks are another popular sleep aid as they can help tо block out light and create a sense of darkness and calm. They are also great for people who live in areas with a lot of light pollution or who have to get up early for work and need to sleep during the day.

Eye masks can be made from many different materials, like silk, cotton, or even gel, and they all have their benefits. Silk eye masks are great for blocking out light but can be expensive, whereas cotton eye masks are more affordable but may not block out light as effectively, while gel eye masks are filled with a cool gel that can help to soothe tired eyes and reduce inflammation.

Herbal tea

Herbal teas are a sleeping aid that helps to relax the mind and body and prepare for sleep. Many different types of herbal tea can be especially helpful for sleep, like chamomile tea, lavender tea, valerian tea, and lemon balm tea.

Herbal teas work by providing a calming effect and helping to reduce anxiety and tension. They can also help to ease muscle pain and cramps, which can make it easier to fall asleep.

To make the perfect cup of herbal tea for sleep, it’s important to steep the tea for the recommended time and to add a bit of honey to sweeten it.

Pillows

Pillows are an important part of getting a good night’s sleep as they provide support for the head and neck and can help to reduce pain and stiffness. To choose the perfect pillow, it’s important to consider the type of sleeper you are, as side sleepers need a different kind of pillow than back sleepers.

There are many different types of pillows on the market, from down pillows to memory foam pillows, and each one has its benefits. Down pillows are great for providing support and comfort but can be expensive, while memory foam pillows are more affordable but may not be as comfortable.

Sleep apps

Finally, you can also improve your night’s rest by using a sleep app. There are many different sleep apps on the market that can help you to track your sleep, set an alarm, and even play calming sounds to help you fall asleep.

Sleep apps are great for people who have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep as they can help to create a bedtime routine and establish healthy sleep habits. They can also help to track your sleep so that you can see how well you’re sleeping and look for patterns that may be affecting your sleep.

healthy sleep habits

As you can see, many different products on the market can help you to get a good night’s rest. Weighted blankets, ear plugs, eye masks, herbal tea, pillows, and sleep apps are all great options that can help you to sleep better and feel your best.

Don’t let a lack of sleep ruin your health, productivity, and well-being, try out one of these sleep aids and get the rest you need!

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