Improving sleep isn’t just about going to bed earlier—it’s about creating the right environment and habits to support restful, restorative sleep. If you’ve tried all the usual suggestions and are still struggling, this article will introduce you to 4 unique sleep hacks that might be the missing link for better rest.
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Mouth Taping: Breathe Better at Night
Mouth taping might sound unconventional, but it’s becoming a popular tool for better sleep. The idea is simple: a small piece of tape keeps your mouth closed while you sleep, ensuring you breathe through your nose instead of your mouth.
Why does this matter? Nose breathing increases nitric oxide levels in the body. Nitric oxide improves blood flow, reduces inflammation, and supports the body’s natural relaxation response. Plus, nasal breathing filters out toxins, allergens, and dust that you could otherwise inhale through your mouth.
If you’re a snorer, this hack is especially worth trying. Many people find that mouth taping reduces or even completely eliminates snoring. Specialized mouth tape, like Somnifix, is gentle and safe for this purpose, or you can use medical-grade tape.
There’s even an entire book on this topic: Breath by James Nestor. For something so simple, this technique can have a big impact on how refreshed you feel each morning.
Incline Sleeping: Rest at the Right Angle
Sleeping on an incline—where your entire body is positioned at a slight angle—might seem odd at first. But this small adjustment can improve the quality of your deep sleep.
Research has shown that incline sleeping helps with lymphatic drainage, which supports the body’s ability to flush out toxins, particularly in the brain. This process can improve energy levels, cognitive function, and overall restfulness.
To try it, you don’t need fancy equipment. Bed risers or a foam mattress pad designed to provide a gradual incline can work wonders. Aim for a 5- to 7-degree incline. For those who wake up feeling groggy or who struggle to stay in deep sleep, this could be the game-changer you need.
Temperature Control With the Eight Sleep Pod Pro Cover
Temperature plays a massive role in how well we sleep. If you’ve ever woken up sweating or shivering, you’ve experienced this firsthand. The Eight Sleep Pod Pro Cover addresses this issue with dual-zone temperature control, meaning you and your partner can each customize your side of the bed.
This advanced mattress cover also includes sleep tracking to help you monitor the quality of your rest over time. While it’s an investment, it’s a practical solution for anyone whose sleep is disrupted by the wrong temperature.
Whether you tend to overheat during the night or prefer a cooler sleep environment, this tool helps you maintain the ideal conditions for uninterrupted rest. While I haven’t personally used this product yet, I’ve heard glowing reviews from those who have improved their sleep dramatically with it.
The Bryte Bed: Smart Technology Meets Sleep
If you’re ready to take sleep technology to the next level, the Bryte bed might be worth exploring. As an AI-powered mattress, it’s like having a personal sleep coach built right into your bed.
I had the chance to test this mattress at a wellness resort, and the experience was amazing. The Bryte bed adapts in real time to your movements and body pressure, offering personalized support. For example, if you roll onto your side, the mattress adjusts to relieve pressure from your shoulder, ensuring maximum comfort.
One of its standout features is the multi-sensory relaxation system. This includes gentle wave-like sensations that help you fall asleep more easily and can even wake you up gently, without the harsh start of an alarm clock.
Additionally, the Bryte bed regulates your body temperature based on your sleep stages, keeping you warm or cool as needed throughout the night. While it’s a premium investment, it could be a fantastic option for those seeking the ultimate in sleep optimization.
Small Changes, Big Results
Great sleep isn’t just about the hours you spend in bed—it’s about the quality of those hours. From something as simple as mouth taping to the advanced technology of the Bryte bed, these sleep hacks can make a meaningful difference.
If you’ve been struggling with sleep, why not try these tools and techniques? You might find that one or more of them is the missing piece to the restful, rejuvenating sleep you’ve been searching for.
Better sleep leads to better health, sharper focus, and more energy to tackle your day. Start experimenting with these strategies today and see how they work for you.
For more expert tips and tools to help you achieve your best night’s sleep, explore my sleep resources and stay tuned for future updates. Wishing you restful nights and energized days!
Sleep Hacks FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Is mouth taping safe for everyone?
Mouth taping is generally safe for most people, but it’s important to use gentle, breathable tape specifically designed for this purpose, like Somnifix. If you have nasal congestion, breathing issues, or conditions like sleep apnea, consult a healthcare professional before trying it. The goal is to encourage nasal breathing, not restrict airflow.
What’s the ideal incline for incline sleeping?
For the best results, aim for a 5- to 7-degree incline. This slight elevation can help with lymphatic drainage, circulation, and overall sleep quality. You can achieve this with bed risers or a foam mattress wedge under your mattress—no need for expensive equipment!
How does the Eight Sleep Pod Pro Cover improve sleep?
This temperature-regulating mattress cover allows you to set the perfect sleep temperature for each side of the bed. It also tracks sleep data to help you understand and optimize your sleep patterns over time. If overheating or getting too cold disrupts your sleep, this tool can be a game-changer.
What makes the BrightBed different from a regular mattress?
The BrightBed is an AI-powered mattress that adjusts in real time to your movements and sleep position. It also features a multi-sensory relaxation system, gentle wake-up technology, and body temperature regulation throughout the night. It’s like having a personal sleep coach built into your bed!
Which of these sleep hacks is the easiest to try first?
If you’re looking for a simple, budget-friendly option, start with mouth taping or incline sleeping—both require minimal effort but can deliver big results. If temperature control is your biggest issue, the Eight Sleep Pod Pro Cover is worth considering. And for those wanting the ultimate sleep upgrade, the BrightBed offers cutting-edge technology to optimize rest.
Devin Burke is a renowned sleep expert, best-selling author, and the founder of Sleep Science Academy, a trusted hub for personalized sleep coaching and a pioneering new strategy that’s restoring natural sleep with science. With his transformative book, The Sleep Advantage, Devin offers practical strategies to help individuals unlock the restorative power of sleep. As the creator of the Sleep Science Academy Sleep Coach Certification Program, he is committed to training the next generation of sleep coaches with cutting-edge techniques and proven methodologies. Learn more about Devin’s work and his mission to improve sleep worldwide at Sleep Science Academy.
