This week I wanted to talk about things that you can do to help you get a better night’s rest. Below are some facts, tips, and techniques that have been suggested to help you get a better night’s (or days) rest!
Block all noise:
In a rest stop or truck stop, try your best to park away from other semi-trucks or loud distractions. Earplugs are great at blocking out noise, or you can run a small portable fan or white noise machine to reduce the sounds inside your truck. Also, put your phone in “do not disturb” mode to keep the phone from making notification sounds and lighting up while you’re sleeping.
Create a dark space:
Turn off the lights and close the curtain, even the smallest amount of light can be a bother. If there are any other interior lights on cover them up! A simple sleep mask can also help you sleep.
Download a sleep app:
You may not have room for a noise machine, so look at the various sleep apps. Find one that offers multiple white noise options and settings, relaxing modes, and they even have wake-up alarms.
Keep a routine:
Even though trucking can be a rather unpredictable job, you will benefit from maintaining a regular sleep routine. Stick to a bedtime routine and your body will adjust. Wind down by reading a book, watching a show, meditating, or doing something else soothing.
Keep your truck cool:
Like sleeping at home in your bed or in a hotel room, your body will rest better when the temperature inside your truck is cool. A small fan for the warm nights/days and extra blankets for the cold nights. Temperature preferences vary from person to person, so just concentrate on a truck temperature that’s most comfortable to you.
Did you know that humans are the only mammals that delay sleep?
Military Technique to help you sleep!
To start with, take some deep breaths and start relaxing each part of your body — from head to toe.
Start by relaxing the muscles in your forehead.
Relax your eyes, your cheeks, your jaw, and focus on your breathing. Now go down to your neck and your shoulders.
Make sure your shoulders are not tensed up. Drop them as low as you can and keep your arms loose by your side, including your hands and fingers.
While doing this, imagine a warm sensation going from your head down to your fingertips, before going from your heart to your toes.
Now, take a deep breath and slowly exhale, relaxing your chest, your stomach, down to your thighs, knees, legs, and feet,” he added.
During the technique, it’s important to try to clear your mind of any thoughts and/or stresses.
Apparently, 96% of people who mastered this technique can fall asleep within two minutes of shutting their eyes.
For the full article click here Military Technique
