Healthy sleep is a vital component of a flourishing life. It allows our bodies to repair themselves and our brains to consolidate our memories and process information. Learning to prioritize sleep, creating a healthy sleeping schedule, and managing personal practices for well-being can have a powerful impact on your overall health.
- Student Resources
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- SilverCloud
- CAPS Sleep Specialist (schedule an initial assessment appointment and mention sleep as a focus area)
- CAPS Groups
- WahooWell
- UYoga at UVA
- Contemplative Sciences Center
- IM-Rec Fitness
- Insight Timer "Sleeping Well" Playlist
- Medical Services (schedule an appointment to discuss clinical support for better sleep)
- Local Resources
- Meditations
- Google Search Suggestions
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- Sleep Quality
- Sleep and Well-being
- Sleep and Mental Health
- Meditations for Healthy Sleep
“Time to yourself is few and far between in college. Take time to take care of yourself, this starts with having a bed-time routine that emphasizes the importance of self care.” - S.H., Class of 2022
Keep a Regular Sleep Schedule
This means knowing when it is time to say no to socializing and get to bed. Knowing your limit and adhering to a sleep schedule will improve your ability to make memories to come.
- Make a plan. An average person should get between 7 and 9 hours of sleep per day; arrange your classes to allow you to get up later if you want to stay up later.
Fine-tune Your Sleep Environment
Noise, light, excessive heat or cold, drafts, air that’s too humid or too dry, all can prevent sleep. To prevent clock-watching, keep your clock out of sight.
Examine Your Eating and Exercising Habits
Oftentimes in college, students do not emphasize the need for nutritious food or consistent exercise. Taking the time to examine your eating and exercise habits is crucial for well-being.
- Eat nutritiously. Check out nutrition services at Student Health and Wellness.
- Exercise. On Grounds there are a lot of options for exercise, including the AFC, Memorial Gym and Slaughter Gym, in addition to hiking Humpback and the Shenandoah. If you used to exercise and now you’re getting less, that can have an impact on your sleep.
- Savor your last hour before bed. Read a book for pleasure. Avoid television or your laptop. Review and write out concerns; consider possible solutions. Plan your next day’s activities.