During the summer, when temperatures rise, finding ways to cool down before heading to bed becomes essential. Although it might be tempting to hop into a cold shower, experts suggest reconsidering this choice.
Trying to sleep in sweltering heat can be a struggle, leaving many tossing and turning throughout the night. Even with several fans directed at you, the internal heat often remains the main issue, leading to discomfort. So what are the alternatives to a cold shower?
It might seem like a logical solution to take a cold shower, but expert advice points to a different approach. Ashley Hainsworth from Bed Kingdom in the UK provides some valuable tips to help you fall asleep more easily without resorting to cold showers.
Surprisingly, Ashley recommends taking a hot shower before bedtime as the initial step. She elaborates that if you feel cool and refreshed when you get into bed, you might find it easier to drift off. While a cool shower might seem appealing, it can actually stimulate you, keeping you awake longer and hindering sound sleep.
Cold showers, contrary to popular belief, can increase energy levels, thus disrupting your ability to fall asleep. Dr. Shokeen from Ocean Skin & Vein Institute in Manhattan Beach, California, discussed the invigorating effects of cold showers on a Huffington Post podcast titled “Am I Doing It Wrong?”
Dr. Shokeen stated, “Should you be taking a hot shower? No. Ideally, you should be taking a cold one,” after exploring scientific studies on PubMed. These studies highlight that cold showers not only energize but also promote hair and skin health, and improve blood vessel function.
On the other hand, hot showers can facilitate cooling your body by releasing heat through extremities, ultimately lowering your core body temperature for a more restful sleep. Ashley also suggests that taking a bath instead can be a great way to unwind and cool off after a long, hot day. It cleanses sweat and oil, leaving you feeling refreshed.
Additionally, bathing can improve sleep quality for allergy sufferers by removing pollen accumulated throughout the day.
For further cooling, Ashley offers additional advice according to the Liverpool Echo. Wearing chilled socks can lower body temperature by drawing heat away. She mentions, “If you feel hot throughout the day, putting your socks in the fridge a few hours before bed and wearing them while you sleep may help cool you down.”
Choosing loose-fitting, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics over synthetic ones can also reduce overheating. For a refreshing experience, consider chilling your pillowcase in a sealed bag in the freezer before bed.
Staying hydrated throughout the day is crucial to regulate body temperature and prevent dehydration from sweating at night. So, while the allure of a cold shower is strong, alternative methods might be more beneficial for a restful night’s sleep.