There are sleep types just as there are personality and activity types. Being human means having a huge and complex range of possible experiences. But sleep is a point of concern for many in our go-go world. And understanding how it works – or doesn’t – can help you do and feel better, every day.
Here are some questions to help determine your sleep type:
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- How long do you typically sleep each night?
- Do you tend to wake up at the same time every morning, even on weekends?
- How do you feel when you wake up in the morning?
- Do you take naps during the day? If so, how long do they normally last?
- What is your preferred bedtime?
- What is your preferred wake time?
- Do you have any pre-sleep routines or behaviors that you practice regularly?
- How do you feel in the hours leading up to bedtime?
- How much caffeine do you consume on a daily basis?
- What is your sleep environment like? Is it quiet and dark, or are there sources of noise and light that may impact your sleep?
Based on your answers, you may align most closely with one of the five main sleep types with recommendations:
Dolphin: If you typically sleep for shorter periods of time and wake up frequently throughout the night, you may align with the dolphin sleep type. For dolphins, it is important to create a relaxing sleep environment and establish consistent sleep and wake times.
Lion: If you tend to wake up early and feel most productive in the morning, you may align with the lion sleep type. Lions benefit from establishing a consistent sleep schedule and limiting caffeine consumption later in the day.
Bear: If you tend to sleep for 7-8 hours per night and wake up feeling refreshed, you may align with the bear sleep type. Bears may benefit from incorporating some pre-sleep relaxation techniques, such as reading or taking a warm bath.
Wolf: If you tend to stay up late and struggle to wake up early in the morning, you may align with the wolf sleep type. Wolves may benefit from establishing a consistent sleep schedule and reducing caffeine and alcohol consumption in the evenings.
Giraffe: If you tend to sleep for shorter periods of time and feel most alert in the late morning or afternoon, you may align with the giraffe sleep type. Giraffes may benefit from taking short naps during the day and creating a sleep environment that allows for plenty of natural light.
Based on your sleep type, you can incorporate sleep hygiene habits that are tailored to your sleep preferences and lifestyle. These habits may include creating a relaxing bedtime routine, establishing a consistent sleep schedule, and limiting caffeine and alcohol consumption.
Additionally, creating a sleep-conducive environment that is dark, quiet, and cool can help improve the overall quality of your sleep.
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