A sleep expert has identified a 'common misconception' that could be preventing you from getting a decent night's rest during a heatwave. This comes as the Met Office issues warnings of 'extreme heat' across large parts of England and Wales this week.
Amber Weather Warning Issued
The forecaster has put in place an amber weather warning covering the South East of England, the South West, London, and large swathes of Wales from 1am on Monday, lasting until 11.59pm on Tuesday, June 23. The Met Office has warned that temperatures could climb as high as 34C on Tuesday.
The public is being urged to stay safe by drinking plenty of fluids, avoiding direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day, and drawing curtains in sun-facing rooms. Those venturing outside are advised to come prepared. The forecaster states: 'If you are going out, take water with you, stay in the shade, wear sunscreen and a wide brimmed hat.'
Sleep Expert's Advice
Sleep expert Lisa Artis, founder of The Sleep Charity, has now revealed her top tips for achieving a good night's sleep in the warm weather. In particular, Lisa highlights one 'common misconception' that many people believe is actually making things worse.
Lisa is urging those struggling with the heat to resist the temptation to sleep without clothing. Speaking to The I paper, she said: 'A common misconception is that sleeping naked is always cooler. In reality, lightweight sleepwear made from breathable fabrics can often be more effective. Clothing can help wick sweat away from the skin, allowing it to evaporate and cool the body more efficiently.'
Lisa explains that without a layer of clothing, sweat will simply 'remain on the skin' or 'soak into the bedding'. This, she says, could leave you feeling even warmer or more uncomfortable during the night.
Tips for a Cooler Bedroom
Lisa also outlines a number of straightforward steps you can take to ensure your bedroom stays cool after dark. She advises keeping curtains and blinds shut throughout the day in order to block out the sun. She believes that creating the 'coolest possible environment' can make it 'easier to stay asleep and fall asleep'.
She also points out that many people frequently position their fans in entirely the wrong spot. Placing a fan in an already hot room, she warns, 'may not achieve much' at all. She continued: 'Positioning a fan near an open window in the evening can help pull cooler air into the room.'
Lisa went on to explain that some people often put a bowl of ice in front of their fan to create a 'temporary cooling breeze'. She also advises keeping windows shut during the day to help prevent warm air from entering your home.
For those seeking an effective way to keep cool at night, Lisa recommends filling a hot water bottle with cold water instead. Placing it near your wrists or ankles, she says, can help bring your body temperature down while you sleep.
