9 Things You Should Never Keep in Your Bedroom
Your bedroom is your sanctuary. It’s the place where you rest, relax, and escape the stresses of daily life. What you keep in this space can significantly impact the quality of your sleep and your overall health and well-being. Here are nine things you should avoid having in your bedroom to create a more peaceful and restful haven:
1. Electronic Devices
- Smartphones, Tablets, and Laptops emit blue light that suppresses melatonin, a hormone that naturally makes you sleepy. The constant notifications and potential for distraction also make it hard to disengage and fully relax.
- TVs disrupt sleep for the same reasons, plus the temptation to stay up too late binge-watching is too real!
2. Work-Related Materials
Your bedroom should be mentally associated with sleep and relaxation, not work stress. Seeing piles of paperwork, your laptop, or project files can trigger anxiety and make it much more difficult to switch off.
3. Dirty Laundry
Piles of dirty clothes create visual clutter and a sense of chaos. Plus, unwashed laundry can sometimes become a breeding ground for bacteria or even attract pests.
4. Exercise Equipment
While exercise is excellent for overall health, having bulky equipment like treadmills or weights in your bedroom can crowd the space and create a subtle reminder of unfinished tasks. It’s best to designate a workout area in a different room.
5. Clutter
Excess “stuff” of any type creates mental noise and distracts from a sense of peace. Aim for minimalism – keep only truly necessary items and those that bring you joy.
6. Bright Colors and Harsh Lighting
Saturated colors and overly bright overhead lights can be visually stimulating and disruptive to sleep. Opt for soothing tones like blues, greens, and muted neutrals. Use dimmable lamps and consider installing blackout curtains if needed.
7. Food and Drinks (Except Water)
Eating in bed leads to crumbs, potential spills, and an increased chance of attracting pests. Plus, the habit of eating in bed disrupts the mental association between your bed and sleep. Limit yourself to a glass of water on your nightstand.
8. Pets
While we love our furry friends, they can disrupt sleep with their movements, noises, and sometimes even allergies. If your pets prevent you from getting a restful night, consider having them sleep elsewhere.
9. Loud or Distracting Clocks
The ticking of a clock or the temptation to constantly check the time can be anxiety-inducing and make it difficult to fall asleep. Opt for a clock without a loud ticking sound or, even better, keep your clock out of sight or in a different room.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. I work from home; where should I keep my desk?
A. Ideally, find a separate space for your workspace, even if it’s a small area in another room. If that’s impossible, create a clear physical and mental separation between work and sleep by hiding work materials out of sight at the end of the day.
Q. What can I do about piles of clean clothes?
A. Make it a part of your evening routine to immediately put away clean clothes. Invest in baskets or hampers to temporarily hold laundry before putting it away if it helps with your routine.
Summary
Your bedroom should be a tranquil oasis. By removing clutter, distractions, allergens, and anything associated with stress or activity, you’ll significantly improve your sleep quality and awake feeling refreshed. A well-rested mind and body pave the way for better mood, overall health, and increased daily productivity!