20 Spring Ahead Necessities For A Higher Sleep

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With Spring comes rejuvenation and growth, but not without sacrificing an hour of sleep for Daylight Saving Time first. An hour may not seem like much, but the subtle shift in our sleep-wake cycle has real consequences.

Daylight Savings Time has real consequences: studies show an increase in car accidents and heart … [+] attacks in the week after the clocks change.

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“Losing an hour of sleep cuts into the time our bodies need to transition to wake up; the last part of sleep is REM, which is important for refreshing your mind,” says Dr. Benjamin Smarr, assistant professor at UCSD’s Department of Bioengineering and the Halicioglu Data Science Institute and Science Advisor to Oura. “People wake up less emotionally resilient, focused and able to quickly direct their attention.” Which is why, Dr. Smarr says, we see an increase in fatal car accidents and heart attacks in the week after the clocks change. 

Mother carrying two sleeping daughters in a dimly lit kitchen.

Daylight Savings Time is challenging in normal times, now the rise of COVID-Somnia means many will … [+] spring forward already sleep-deprived.

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Daylight Savings Time was challenging enough pre-pandemic. Now, all the time spent at home is disrupting our sleep-wake cycles, and heightened anxiety and stress is compromising the quality and duration of our sleep. The rise of COVID-Somnia, a term used to describe the increase in sleep disturbances caused by the pandemic, means many of us will be springing forward already sleep-deprived.

“If your bank account is already empty, getting hit with a mandatory expense is extra stressful,” says Dr. Michael Grandner, Director of the Sleep and Health Research Program at the University of Arizona and Casper Sleep Advisor. “For people already starting out with sleep debt, that extra hour lost can have implications for mental and physical performance, that can have a measurable impact on health and safety.”

A woman in bed turns the Casper Glow Light in a dimly-lit bedroom.

“For people already starting out with sleep debt, that extra hour lost can have implications for … [+] mental and physical performance,” says Dr. Michael Grandner, Casper Sleep Advisor and Director of the Sleep and Health Research Program at the University of Arizona.

Casper

“During this time, many rhythms in our body may be thrown off, impacting everything from immune function to metabolism to alertness,” says Dr. Grandner. The need for rest has arguably never been more crucial. Sleep’s role in regulating metabolism and supporting the immune system make it essential in defending the body against illness as we await vaccines. And with all the time in lockdown making our brains foggy and forgetful, everyone could use the boost in mood and concentration that comes from a good night’s sleep.

Beauty rest is no longer just a luxurious form of self-care, it’s an essential component of maintaining our health. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, these bedroom additions will help you get some shut-eye this spring and beyond. 

Lunya Washable Silk Cami Pant Set $238

A woman models a navy blue Lunya Silk Cami Pant Set against a white backdrop.

This breathable, thermoregulating pajama set from Lunya is made with machine-washable silk.

Lunya

If you want the luxury of silk without the high maintenance care, this machine-washable set is for you. Made with 100% thermoregulating silk, adjustable straps, and side slits, it’s comfortable and breathable (goodbye night sweats). Available in nine neutral shades, the wide-legged, pocketed pants and sleek cami with a low-cut back make the set as elegant as it is practical.

Oura Ring $399

A man smiles wearing an Oura smart ring with a blue sleep mask in a white tshirt.

The Oura smart ring monitors how the body sleeps to help optimize the sleep-wake cycle.

Oura

This discrete ring helps you get your sleep-wake cycle in check by providing thorough insights on how you sleep and personalized tips for optimizing your circadian rhythm. Three tiny sensors on the inner band monitor the body while you’re snoozing, measuring an impressive number of body signals, like your temperature, respiratory rate, and most importantly—how you move through each sleep stage. Lightweight, water resistant and only requiring a charge every five to seven days, it’s smart tech you’ll never lose sleep over. 

Vitruvi Black Sleep Set $55

A Vitruvi diffuser, black silk sleep mask and bottle of the sleep blend on a white table.

Vitruvi Black Sleep Set pairs a 100% silk sleep mask with the signature Sleep Blend.

Vitruvi

Calming ingredients like lavender, roman chamomile and vetiver make Vitruvi’s Sleep Blend a welcome addition to any bedroom in need of some z’s. This set pairs the essential oil blend with a 100% silk sleep mask, for a luxurious self-care duo sure to encourage a dreamier slumber.

Casper The Glow Light $129

A woman in grey sleepwear holds a dim Casper Glow Light in a dark room.

The Casper Glow Light doubles as a sunrise alarm and portable nightlight that gradually dims before … [+] bed.

Casper

This sunrise alarm’s gentle, sun-imitating light eases the wake-up process, making it a useful tool for shifting the circadian rhythm. But it helps you fall asleep too; gradually dimming over 45 minutes to a warm glow, signalling the brain to produce melatonin, a hormone released before bed. Portable and intuitive, the sleek light can be paired with multiple to turn your entire home into a sleep sanctuary.  

Lush Beauty Sleep Face and Body Mask $16.95

An open jar of Lush Beauty Sleep Face and Body Mask.

The Beauty Sleep Face and Body Mask Is one of several Lush products made with their beloved Sleepy … [+] scent.

Lush

Made with the nourishing oils of neroli, avocado and evening primrose, and calming lavender and lemon verbena, this face and body mask takes beauty rest seriously. The standout ingredient here is valerian—a powerful root known to encourage sleep. If you like the bestselling Sleepy fragrance, the all-natural cosmetic line has an entire Sleepy collection with dreamy remedies like the Deep Sleep Bath Bomb, Sleep Bar Soap and cult-favorite Dream Cream.

Headspace $69.99 (Annual Plan)

The sleep section of Headspace's mobile application.

Headspace Soundscapes blend guided narration with imaginative environmental audio for an immersive … [+] bedtime story.

Headspace

Meditation slows down the breath, lowers the heart rate and turns on the parasympathetic nervous system—making it the perfect bedtime activity for busy minds. Headspace’s Sleep section offers several solutions—whether you need an SOS meditation in the middle of the night or a wind down breathing exercise before bed. The standout sleep-inducer however is their sleepcasts: 45-55 minute narrated tours of imaginary environments that slightly change every time you listen (think, bedtime story but more immersive).

Gravity Weighted Sleep Mask $40

Two hands reach for a grey Gravity Weighted Sleep Mask on a bed with blue sheets.

Gravity Weighted Sleep Mask evenly distributes one pound of weight to key facial pressure points.

Peter Garritano via Gravity

Gravity’s Weighted Sleep Mask takes the same deep pressure therapy technology used in weighted blankets and applies it to the face: one pound of weight is evenly applied to key pressure points, stimulating the production of serotonin and melatonin to cue the brain for bed. Micro-plush and imitation cashmere give the cozy hug effect that make weighted blankets so popular.

Saje Sleep Well Bath Soak $20

Saje Sleep Well Bath Salts are poured out of a glass jar against a white background.

Saje Sleep Well Bath Soak combines Epsom salts with soothing lavender and valerian.

Saje

Unplugging and decompressing in a warm nighttime bath helps usher the body and mind into bed. Adding essential oils and bath salts to the tub takes the relaxation factor to the next level. Saje’s Sleep Well Soak delivers with soothing ingredients known to alleviate tension, like Epsom salts, lavender and valerian oil.

Under Armour RECOVER Sleepwear $80

A woman wears Under Armour Recover pajamas in grey.

Under Armour RECOVER Sleepwear is designed to upcycle the body’s infrared energy during sleep.

Under Armour

Sported by athletes for recovery, these pajamas use infrared technology to return the body’s energy to fatigued muscles. Hot sleepers will appreciate the moisture-wicking fabric dries quickly. With soft-knit, breathable material in a stylish cut, the set also doubles as restorative loungewear.

Alani Sleep $17.49  

A jar of Alani sleep powder on a marble bedside table in front of an alarm.

Alani’s lemon-flavored sleep powder contains magnesium and potassium for recovery.

Alani

The nutrition company known for making sports supplements that taste like candy tone down the energy with this lemon-flavored powder that makes a soothing bedtime drink. Those with physical tension will appreciate the two main ingredients–magnesium and potassium—electrolytes that are essential for recovery. Anxiety-relieving GABA and sleep-inducing melatonin quiet the mind for rest.

Ugg Scuffette II $90

The Ugg Scuffette II slipper in black.

The Scuffette II is a cult-favorite for its comfortable plush interior.

Ugg

While house slippers are far from scientifically-proven to improve sleep, a cozy pair can certainly up the comfort factor of your bedtime routine. Boasting thousands of reviews on Amazon, Ugg’s Scuffette II is a cult-favorite. Making your way to bed feels like walking on a cloud thanks to a fluffy sheepskin collar and plush fur interior.

Pukka Night Time Tea $5.96

Pukka night time tea bags circle a white bowl of lavender.

Pukka Night Time Tea contains tulsi leaf and licorice to settle the stomach before bed.

Pukka

There are now countless sleep supplements and drinks on the market, but sometimes a simple soothing cup of tea is all you need. Pukka’s night time formula contains oat flower, valerian and lavender, three herbs known to encourage relaxation and sleep. Licorice root and tulsi leaf help settle the stomach while lime flower gives it a comforting sweet note. 

This Works Deep Sleep Pillow Spray $29

Thisworks Deep Sleep Pillow Spray and Deep Sleep Dream Cream against a white background.

ThisWorks award-winning sleep formulas are designed to help you fall and stay asleep.

Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

From inhalers to facial oils to bath soaks, This Works boasts a wide variety of products designed with the circadian rhythm in mind. The Deep Sleep Pillow Spray is one of their bestsellers for its three-part blend of lavender, chamomile and vetiver. The award-winning skincare company takes their name seriously—97% of Deep Sleep Pillow Spray users reported sleeping better while 89% said they fell asleep faster in clinical studies.

Hydrant Sleep $43.75

Two glasses of Hydrant Sleep electrolyte formula mixed in water against a red background.

Hydrant Sleep electrolyte blend is packed with relaxing ingredients like melatonin, magnesium and … [+] L-theanine.

Hydrant

This new product from Hydrant adds sleep-inducing ingredients to its signature electrolyte blend of potassium, magnesium and zinc. Amino acids like GABA and L-theanine relieve anxiety while melatonin helps reset the body’s sleep-wake cycle. Delivered in convenient single-serve packs, the elderberry-flavored powder easily dissolves in both hot and cold water.

Purecare Recovery Sheet Set $300  

A bed outfitted in beige Purecare Recovery Sheet Set and a purple blanket.

Purecare Recovery Sheets use infrared technology to stimulate circulation during sleep.

Purecare

Proven in clinical studies to improve the duration and quality of sleep, these are not your average sheets. The fabric is infused with Celliant: a mineral formula that upcycles the body’s wasted infrared energy, resulting in better circulation and recovery. Available in four neutral shades, the 300+ thread count and premium cotton give them a luxurious feel.

J.R. Watkins Sleep Sugar Body Polish $14.99

A bottle of J.R. Watkins Sleep Sugar Body Polish.

J.R. Watkins Sleep exfoliating scrub contains fine sugar crystals to leave skin smooth in the … [+] sheets.

J.R. Watkins

This natural body polish is made with lavandin and orange to reduce stress and fine sugar crystals for an exfoliating self-massage that’ll leave you with smooth skin in the sheets. For an even dreamier bedtime ritual, upgrade to the J.R. Watkins Sleep Bath Regimen, which includes a shower mist, bath elixir and body wash made with the same relaxing formula. 

Medterra CBD Sleep Tight Gummies $39.99

A package of Medterra Sleep Tight CBD Gummies on a purple blanket.

Each strawberry flavored Medterra Sleep Tight gummy delivers 25mg of CBD to help you fall and stay … [+] asleep.

Medterra

These strawberry flavored gummies contain 3mg of melatonin to help you fall asleep. But the formula is designed to help you stay asleep too, with anxiety-relieving amino acids L-theanine and 5-HTP, and relaxing herbs like passion flower, chamomile and lemon balm. As if that wasn’t enough—each gummy contains 25mg of premium 99%+ CBD.

Muse S $349.99

A man sleeps on a couch with the Muse Headband

The Muse S headband uses EEG (electroencephalogram) technology to monitor the brain during sleep.

Muse

This brain-sensing headband uses EEG (electroencephalogram) technology to track the amount of time spent in each sleep stage, as well as your heart rate, position and amount of movement. The daily report is like having your own personal sleep lab at home. Better yet, immersive soundscapes and guided meditations adapt to your heartbeat in real-time, making this comfy headband a useful meditation tool to usher the mind into rest.

Good Day Milk Chocolate 3mg $31.99

A bottle of Good Day Chocolate's 3mg Green Sleep Chocolate Balls.

Good Day Chocolate makes sweet chocolate balls with 1, 3 or 5mg doses of melatonin to cue the brain … [+] for bed.

Good Day Chocolate

These crunchy-on-the-outside, smooth-on-the-inside chocolate balls are made with chamomile and a powerful 3mg dose of melatonin for a sweet bedtime snack that lulls the brain to sleep. If it’s hard to resist having just one, Good Day Chocolate also makes milk and dark chocolate balls in a lower 1mg dose, plus energy chocolate for early wake-up calls.

SensorPEDIC Memory Foam CBD Pillow $145

A woman sleeps in bed with the Sensorpedic Memory Foam CBD Pillow.

CBD and the aroma of chamomile are released from the SensorPEDIC Memory Foam Pillow during sleep.

Sensorpedic

Pressure-relieving memory foam contours to the shape of the head and neck for seamless snoozing. But what sets this pillow apart is the embedding of 99.9% pure hemp-derived CBD, which is released from the fabric while you sleep. The cover is also infused with chamomile to ease the nervous system.