Poor sleep is often linked to stress, phone use, or excessive caffeine consumption, but according to sleep experts cited by Lrytas, the bedroom itself may also play a role.
A cool, dark, and quiet room can help the body relax and prepare for sleep.
Harvard Medical School highlights that reducing distractions around bedtime can support better sleep.
When you can't fall asleep
If you do not fall asleep within 15 to 20 minutes, experts recommend getting up briefly and doing something calming.
Also read: Mosquito-borne virus outbreaks trigger travel warnings in these regions
This could include reading a book or listening to quiet music.
The Sleep Foundation advises against forcing yourself to sleep. The harder you try, the more active your brain may become.
The brain stays alert
The brain can still detect light and movement, even while you are asleep.
Small flashes, shadows, or changes in the room can therefore make sleep lighter, according to Harvard Medical School.
Also read: As children's mental health struggles rise, experts point to one solution
For this reason, experts recommend minimizing visual distractions in the bedroom.
The overlooked factor
According to sleep expert Charlie Davis, cited by Lrytas, mirrors positioned opposite the bed may be a possible cause of poor sleep.
Mirrors can reflect light and movement from windows, passing cars, streetlights, or people outside.
This may create stimulation for the brain and make it more difficult for the body to fully relax.
Also read: The early cancer symptoms doctors want you to take seriously
Also read: Popular blood pressure drug recalled following packaging error