It appears that a large percentage of the United States’ population isn’t getting enough sleep every night. Recent figures show that roughly 60 million people in this country have some type of sleep disorder or otherwise experience a lack of sleep.

In 1942, the average American would sleep nearly 8 hours a night. Current figures, however, show that the new average is 6.8 hours per night. Experts recommend that 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night is usually enough. This does depend on the individual, the type of work they perform, and other relevant factors.

The Effects of Workplace Stress

Around a million people in the United States are absent from work every day due to workplace stress. Recent data indicates that approximately 66% of male and female workers claim that their job has had a major impact on their stress levels. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 40% of American workers have reported that their jobs are “very or extremely stressful.”

While each individual usually has a unique response to workplace stress, the NIOSH reported that many workers will call in sick or take a “mental health day.” While these absences do affect workplace productivity, in some instances, workers may return to their jobs feeling less stressed. As a result, they may be even more productive at work.

The Importance of Comfortable Bedding for a Good Night’s Sleep

Given the amount of stress that people endure on a regular basis, finding healthy, natural solutions for stress-reduction is important. There are a variety of simple actions that can be taken to increase comfort and reduce stress.

The National Sleep Foundation’s 2012 Bedroom Poll, for example, found that approximately 75% of people experience improved sleep when they have fresh-scented sheets on their bed. Furthermore, 85% of the participants indicated that having comfortable sheets and bedding also made a difference. Comfortable mattresses and pillows rated high for 9 out of 10 of the participants.

Essential Oils and Heating Pads as Sleep Aids

While the use of essential oils for therapeutic purposes has been in practice for around 6,000 years, many people are turning to these to reduce stress and for other purposes. Lavender, in particular, has been shown to have relaxing properties.

When people are experiencing sleep issues due to muscle soreness and tension, a relaxing microwavable heated back wrap may be helpful. A lavender scented neck heat wrap may also soothe nerves and assist with reducing stress and muscle tension after a long day at work. In addition to a microwavable heated back wrap, using a microwaveable heating pad for a variety of aches and pains may also assist people with relaxing enough to fall asleep.

Other Suggestions to Assist with Sleep Issues

The Mayo Clinic states that when people don’t fall asleep within 15 minutes, that they should get out of bed and engage in a relaxing activity. This is because agonizing over not falling asleep can increase stress levels, which makes it more difficult to fall asleep. Once someone begins to feel sleepy, then they can return to bed.

How to Experience a More Positive State-of-Mind and Well-Being

Since sleep levels can make a difference in a person’s state-of-mind and overall well-being, it’s important to receive enough sleep. It’s been shown that when people have around 8 hours of sleep a night, that they experience increased well-being.

There are several simple remedies that can make a significant difference. In addition to a comfortable bed and fresh, clean sheets, a microwavable heated back wrap, lavender heat wrap, or an aromatherapy neck pillow may enhance relaxation.