Simple habit before bed can help your body cool down naturally in hot weather

Simple habit before bed can help your body cool down naturally in hot weather A sleep expert has shared some practical tips for getting a good night's rest A sleep expert has revealed an unexpected trick to beat the summer heat that might initially sound bizarre. There are numerous strategies you can try at bedtime to ensure you get a decent night's kip. Lisa Artis, deputy CEO at The Sleep Charity and expert for sleep tech firm Simba, outlined some effective ways to get quality rest despite the clammy weather. She explained: "Hot weather can make it more difficult for the body to reach the cooler temperature it needs for sleep, so the aim is to create an environment that helps you stay comfortable throughout the night." She offered advice on helping your body naturally lower its temperature as you prepare for bed. One technique she recommended might seem a bit odd at first. An unexpected tip Ms Artis advised: "It also helps to avoid heavy meals and alcohol close to bedtime, as both can raise body temperature and make sleep feel more restless. A lukewarm shower before bed may sound surprising, but it can encourage the body's natural cooling process and help you feel more ready for sleep." She added that it can make a "real difference" if you take steps to maintain your bedroom at the coolest possible temperature. Ms Artis recommended: "Closing curtains or blinds during the day to block direct sunlight, opening windows when temperatures drop in the evening, and choosing breathable cotton bedding and sleepwear can all help. "Many think they should sleep without any covers when it's hot, but a lightweight, breathable duvet can actually help regulate temperature more effectively." Consider trying hybrid duvets and pillows, such as those available from Simba, which feature cooling technologies and breathable fabrics designed to prevent overheating. How you sleep can have a 'big impact' Aside from trying to keep down your bedroom temperature, there are some other simple habits that you can put into practice to improve your sleep quality. Ms Artis said: "People often focus on the room temperature but forget about the smaller habits that can have a big impact on comfort and keeping cool. "For example, sleeping on your side or in a more spread-out position can help body heat disperse more easily. Keeping electronics switched off before bed can reduce unnecessary heat in the bedroom, while cooling the feet with a cool foot bath or laying a cool damp flannel over them, or even a chilled hot water bottle at the end of the bed, can help lower overall body temperature."