Get a Clean Sweep for a Clean Sleep

This Is What Happened After Four Days

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Amanda Mourelatos, Co-Editor of Cougart and Community Builder

Just like any other teenager, I go to bed late, stay up all night on my phone or watching Netflix, and regret it when I wake up at 5:00 a.m. every morning. Then my dad brought up the “clean sleep” to me, which involves going to bed at the same, reasonable time every night, no caffeine right before bed, no reading before bed, no blue light devices before bed, etc. So, my set bedtime for this week was reading from 9:15 to 9:30, then having all devices put away by 9:35.

Day 1: I read The Death Cure for fifteen minutes and wrapped up my texting conversations; my book and phone were away by 9:35.  Since I normally stay up between 10:00-11:00 at night, I had some trouble falling asleep at first. I probably fell asleep around 9:45. This morning, I felt a little more energized and got out of bed easier. Normally I’m an absolute bear to get up (just ask my mom if you don’t believe me), but not today! Sure, I was a little groggy during 0 period, but I was on my feet by the time 1st and 2nd rolled around. Just in time for my tests!

Day 2: Last night, I played in the pep band for the Coaches vs. Cancer game and developed a painful headache, so I didn’t read. I did, however, shove a Hot Pocket down my throat and go to bed at the same time as Monday night. I woke up this morning feeling slightly more rested than the night before and a lot more rested than last weekend. Going to bed at the same time every night is making it easier and easier to fall asleep and I feel calmer. This morning, I wasn’t nearly as tired as I have been in past mornings. During drumline (my 0 period), I was alert and on my game more than usual.

Day 3: I think this is working. I don’t feel as tired as I normally do. Normally, I’m on the verge of passing out in some of my classes, but not anymore. I practiced my etudes for band, read a little, then went to bed at 9:35. I’m noticing that I’m falling asleep quicker since I have a regular sleep schedule now. My mornings are going smoother and I’m actually waking up instead of waking up and going back to sleep because of how exhausted I am.

Day 4: Looking back on my old sleep schedule, I was always tired and it affected my life in a negative way. I was constantly complaining and I’m sure it annoyed others. I feel better and healthier, too. Falling asleep at night and waking up is getting easier. I read a little before bed and it’s very calming. This morning, I woke up and got out of bed and actually stayed up. I’ve been more focused and interested in class this week, especially in the mornings during my first couple of periods instead of falling asleep on my snare drum during 0 period (don’t worry, I’m exaggerating, but sometimes I wish I could).

Setting a sleep schedule has really helped me to maintain the proper amount of hours I need to stay healthy, function properly, and feel awake and alert. If you have trouble falling asleep at night or waking up in the morning, I highly suggest going to sleep at the same time every night an giving yourself leisure time to settle down and prepare yourself and your body for sleep.