Sleep in 2026: 5 New Year's resolutions to improve sleep quality

A certified sleep coach outlines five practical resolutions — a consistent sleep schedule, a bedtime routine, stress management, reduced late-day caffeine, and limiting late-night eating — to support the recommended 7–9 hours of nightly sleep for most adults.

We're a month into 2026 and it's still early for New Year's resolutions. Sleep is often overlooked in health goals. The article notes sleep affects concentration, medical visits, and weight loss. The average adult needs about 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Key points: - A certified sleep coach lists five resolutions aimed at improving nightly sleep. - A consistent sleep and wake schedule supports the circadian rhythm and the body's melatonin cycle. - Establishing a bedtime routine — such as dimming lights, personal care, and reading — is described as a simple way to make falling asleep easier. - Managing evening stress can reduce sleep disruption; the cognitive shuffling method is mentioned as one approach to ease nighttime anxiety. - Reducing late-day caffeine is recommended because caffeine can remain in the body for about 5–7 hours and may reduce deeper sleep stages. - Avoiding large or late meals and limiting fluids before bed can reduce nighttime awakenings, and sleeping on the left side is noted as a way to relieve nighttime heartburn. Summary: The article suggests small, realistic changes to daily routines can influence sleep quality and, by extension, concentration and other areas of health. Undetermined at this time.