Simple Ways to Get a Better Night's Sleep

November 28, 2001

As a dancer, you know how essential sleep is for keeping your body healthy and energized. But you also know how a chaotic rehearsal schedule or stressful upcoming performance can interfere.

One easy way to get a better night’s rest? Make your bed. Not only will your room look nicer, but a survey by the National Sleep Foundation found that people who made their beds each morning were 19% more likely to regularly report getting a good night’s sleep. And about 75% of people said they rested better when they slept on fresh, clean sheets—simply because they were physically more comfortable. 

In general, staying more organized during the day can be beneficial when you’re getting ready for bed at night. Saving last-minute tasks, like answering emails or finishing up a school assignment, for right before bed will keep you awake longer and make it harder to fall asleep when you try. When you can, leave the day’s stress behind and give yourself time to unwind before crawling into your (neatly-made) bed. You may find yourself feeling more alert and well-rested at your early rehearsal the next morning.