Explore when to sleep according to Ayurveda, the science behind dosha cycles, and practical tips to reset your sleep schedule for natural energy and health.
Read MoreEver wonder why you feel wiped out even after eight hours of sleep? Chances are your sleep timing is off. Your body runs on a 24‑hour rhythm called the circadian clock. When you go to bed and wake up at the same times each day, that clock runs smoothly, and you wake up feeling refreshed. Below are simple steps you can start using tonight.
First, notice when you feel most awake without any coffee or snacks. Most people hit their peak in the late morning and dip after lunch. If you naturally feel sleepy around 10 p.m., that’s a good clue for your bedtime. Write down the hour you feel ready to close your eyes for a few days. The point where you consistently feel sleepy is your body’s preferred sleep window.
Next, count back 7‑9 hours from that sleepy time. That’s the amount of sleep most adults need. If you’re naturally sleepy at 10 p.m., aim to be in bed by 11 p.m. to get a full night’s rest. Adjust the window a little if you know you need more or less sleep.
Your brain responds to habits. A short routine—like dimming lights, reading a paperback, or doing light stretching—tells it, "It’s time to wind down." Keep screens out of the room for at least 30 minutes; the blue light tricks the brain into thinking it’s still daytime. If you struggle with pain, a warm shower or a gentle yoga flow can ease tension and help you slip into sleep faster.
Stick to the same routine every night, even on weekends. Skipping it on Saturdays can throw off your rhythm, making Monday mornings feel extra rough. Consistency beats occasional marathon sleep sessions.
Use a simple phone app or a paper log to note the time you go to bed, when you actually fall asleep, and when you wake up. Look for patterns. If you notice you’re still tossing after 30 minutes, try moving bedtime 15 minutes earlier. Small tweaks add up.
When travel or shift work disrupts your clock, treat it like a mini reset. Expose yourself to bright light in the morning of your new schedule and keep evenings dim. A cup of herbal tea (no caffeine) can also signal that bedtime is near.
Getting your sleep timing right isn’t a one‑time fix. It’s a habit you fine‑tune over weeks. By listening to your body, setting a consistent routine, and tracking progress, you’ll wake up with more energy, less pain, and a clearer mind. Try one change tonight and see how it feels in the morning—you might be surprised how much difference a few minutes make.
Explore when to sleep according to Ayurveda, the science behind dosha cycles, and practical tips to reset your sleep schedule for natural energy and health.
Read More