Probably all of us have experienced the negative impacts of sleep deficiency on our mood and performance but it doesnt stop there In the long run without enough rest our overall health begins to suffer too
If this is a recurring issue for you perhaps youve tried limiting your caffeine or sugar consumption eating better foods and even adjusting your screen time habits as you wind down for the night
In fact its no secret that blue light from electronics affects our melatonin production The research on this has been extensive including on this very blog But there is some good tech out there that can ensure a restful sleeping environment and help us understand and fine tune our nighttime routine
Smart technology uses connectivity to the internet or other smart devices like our phones to provide valuable insights into our habits and help us make some necessary changes with a simple finger tap
The smart bedroom devices listed below are specifically designed to promote sleep not detract from it no blue light required
Whether youre looking to improve the quality of your sleep or just prevent poor sleep from happening in the first place check out this list of smart tech to implement in your sleep routine
Smart Beds
Imagine if perfect sleep was as simple as crawling into bed With smart beds this isnt just in your dreams
Smart beds can just about do it all Strategically placed sensors in and around the mattress record and report your sleep data how long you slept your body movements and any environmental factors that affect your sleep like noise
Some models take this to the next level by offering the ability to adjust the angle of the mattress or even the internal temperature If you or your partner are prone to snoring your smart bed can raise your head slightly to promote better airflow If youre running hot at 2 am your bed can cool itself down to help
Finally many smart beds can connect with other devices in your home for cross functionality and include speakers for audio capabilities
Sleep Trackers
Sleep trackers offer the sleep data of a smart bed but without the price tag Similar to a fitness tracker sleep trackers are designed to monitor and then report on your sleep data
Sleep trackers allow you to see data on your REM cycle heart rate and sleep performance dont worry youre not being judged based on this score
Whether youd like to wear your sleep tracker overnight or just have it close by on your nightstand theres a model out there for you Some can be worn on the wrist while others are designed as rings for your fingers or even a headband
Its important to note that your sleep tracker will collect and report your sleep data but its up to you to interpret it and make any necessary changes to get better sleep
Smart Lights
Smart lights are a great investment for your entire home but their benefits can be especially felt in the bedroom Smart lights connect to your Wi Fi and allow you to control them with your phone You can ensure your bedroom is the right color and brightness with smart lights total customization capabilities
There are smart lights with a full color spectrum or bulbs that stick to various shades of white Smart lights can also be programmed to follow a schedule meaning you can be greeted with a soft gradually brightening lamp in the morning or a handy light in an otherwise dark house in the evening
If youd like to preserve your deep REM sleep while you check on your children or run to the bathroom in the middle of the night you can toggle the dimmest possible light in your smart bulbs instead of flipping on the hall light
The main reasons these smart lights are so handy outside of bedtime hours as well are their longevity and energy efficiency One bulb can last up to five years or longer and youll notice the energy saving benefits when the electric bill comes
Smart Window Blinds
If youd like a natural light solution instead of upgrading your interior bulbs look no further than your own windows
Smart blinds are battery powered Bluetooth or internet connected window coverings With your phone or another remote device you can raise or lower your smart blinds or adjust their angle to let the perfect amount of light in
Smart blinds can also be programmed to automatically adjust themselves at sunset or sunrise They can also help regulate your homes interior temperature ensuring your HVAC isnt working harder than it needs to
While indeed an investment smart blinds are relatively inexpensive and can have positive impacts on your bodys Vitamin D absorption leading to better sleep
Smart Alarm Clocks
Sometimes all we need is a good wake up call without our phones to start the day off right
If youre looking to customize your morning alarm but dont want your phone tempting you from the nightstand a smart alarm clock strikes a great balance
Beyond the personalization of your alarm would you like pleasant birdsong or perhaps vibrations smart alarm clocks offer plenty of useful features depending on the model A smart display can show your calendar the news and local weather or you can opt for a simple digital display with a soft nightlight Many models also offer soothing music or white noise to serve as your sleeps soundtrack
Most smart clocks are compatible with a range of other home automation devices like the ones listed here aiding in synergy throughout your home
5 More Smart Ideas
Weve listed our favorite sleep enhancing smart bedroom ideas above but if youre feeling inspired you can keep the Zs coming with these other tech tricks
Wireless Chargers
Sometimes sleeping with our phones in the bedroom is unavoidable but it doesnt have to be disruptive They often automatically shut off when your device is at 100 helping prolong its battery life With wireless chargers youll be glad you no longer have to search for your power cord under the bed while half asleep
Light Therapy Lamps
Light therapy lamps help your circadian rhythm by offering a glow that our bodies interpret similarly to sunlight These lamps are also said to help with symptoms of depression which can be exacerbated when your body doesnt get enough natural light
Wireless Fans
Achieve the perfect sleep temperature in your bedroom with a wireless fan More lightweight and portable than a traditional tower fan a wireless version can bring you comfortable filtered air along with a lullaby of white noise
Smart Essential Oil Diffusers
There are many essential oils that can promote restful sleep Smart diffusers give the benefits of aromatherapy with a few extra perks customize the strength of the mist or the soft lights color and program a scheduled shut off time for after youre fast asleep
Bluetooth Outlets
Investing in new electronics isnt always feasible If youd like to get a feel for what smart bedroom tech can do for you without the upfront cost or commitment Bluetooth outlets can turn anything smart With these smart outlets you can remotely control their power and that of anything plugged into them with just a smartphone app Turn your lights TV or essential oil diffuser on or off from anywhere
Finding ways to improve your sleep can be like finding the right home insurance there are so many different options out there and you have to find what works best for you This list just scratches the surface of what smart tech can do for you and your sleep
When you improve your rest environment even with the assistance of digital upgrades you improve your sleep and your life
If you find yourself still feeling tired throughout the day you may have sleep apnea Talk to your physician about a possible sleep study or call the Alaska Sleep Clinic today 907 420 0540 to speak to one of our sleep specialists Find out what we were voted by Alaskans as the Best Sleep Lab in the state
