Nature's Sleep Blog

Memory Foam Fact Vs. Fiction

Thu, 02 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

How many times have you bought something because someone you know told you it was great or that it had a certain benefit? Now, how many times has that happened, and you later learn your friend was wrong about the product. I know its happened to me before, where so and so recommended a product for certain features, benefits, or a warranty that was incorrect. Lesson learned, always verify and research the product so you know exactly what you're bringing home.

Shopping for big ticket items definitely requires research, and it sometimes requires fact checking. Its important to make an informed buying decision, so you feel comfortable and satisfied with your purchase. Especially when you're shopping for a new mattress, where you'll spend 1/3 of your life. With the popularity of memory foam products increasing, so have the rumors, myths, and incorrect information.

So let's take a look at some of the facts vs. fiction

Memory Foam Mattresses vs. Latex Mattresses

False.There's no difference between memory foam mattresses and latex.Its true both mattresses have some similarities, but memory foam mattresses are made with a visco-elastic polyurethane substance. Latex is either synthetic or naturally-derived from rubber trees.
False. Memory foam restricts movement. Memory foam contours to your body, however your freedom to move is not affected.
True. Memory foam reduces motion transfer more than latex mattresses. So if you or your partner get out of bed often or are tossing and turning, you'll feel it less on a memory foam mattress,
False. Memory foam mattresses stink. Your new memory foam mattress, or pillow may have a slight odor for a few days, often referred to as off-gassing, but it will dissipate with time.
False. Memory foam makes you hot while sleeping. Nature's Sleep mattresses are made of Advanced Visco Technology,pecifically designed to sleep cooler than most other foams on the market

What would you like to learn more about with memory foam products?

Now That I'm A Parent Will I Ever Sleep Again?

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 13:00:00 GMT

For nine months you eagerly awaited the day you'd meet your baby. You dreamed of what he or she would look like, wondered about their personality, and prepared the perfect nursery where they can "sleep like a baby." Yet since your child was born, no one has done much sleeping, and you keep asking yourself "now that I'm a parent, will I ever sleep again?"

The answer is "yes", but maybe not as much as you'd like or when you would like to sleep. Sleeping late is most likely a distant memory, unless you and your spouse can take turns with the baby while the other catches some extra ZZZs. You can expect to lose somewhere between 400-750 hours of sleep in your baby's first year. Speaking from experience, it might feel like a lot more!

How much sleep should your baby be getting?

Newborn- 2 Months 8.5 hours
2-6 Months 10 hours
6- 12 Months 11-12 hours

First things first, remember this is just a general guideline and all babies are different. Yes your neighbor/sister/best friend's baby may sleep through the night at six weeks, but that doesn't mean you're doing anything wrong.

Tips for getting your baby to sleep, include trying to put them to bed while they're drowsy but still awake. At around six months old you may want to establish a bedtime routine, eat/play/bath followed by bedtime. Try relaxing activities that often help babies get ready for bed like bathing, cuddling, singing or reading.Make sure the baby's room is dark and quiet, you may need to use blackout curtains or a white noise machine.

Remember things get easier as your baby gets older, and you will eventually sleep again. In the meantime, remember they won't always be that small, or want to snuggle, so enjoy it while it lasts.

How much sleep did you get as a new parent?

SAVE 65% ON YOUR ENTIRE ORDER WITH OUR 1 DAY SALE

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 15:45:00 GMT

If you need a new mattress, new pillow, or new memory foam topper, then you should take advantage of our 1 days savings of 65% on your entire order! Now's the perfect time to give our memory foam mattresses or memory foam pillows a try with 65% in savings and free shipping. Or if you've already replaced your mattress and pillows, remember they also make great housewarming, wedding and graduation gifts! Use coupon code SAVE65 to save 65% on your entire order. Valid 4/27/13 only!

What will you order?

What Is Social Jet Lag And Does It Affect You?

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Social jetlag, what is it and how could it be affecting your weight and your health? If I was a contestant on Jeopardy or another trivia program and asked "what is social jetlag", my guess would be the fatigue you experience after trying to cram in too many social activities into one's schedule. Let's say you spend happy hour with co-workers at the neighborhood bar, followed by watching your favorite team on the diamond, and then an hour or two playing on Facebook. Then you climb into bed and crash until your alarm starts squawking at you, to get up and head to work,

However, my answer would not take home the prize money. Social jetlag is defined as a syndrome that occurs when our body's biological clock and our actual sleep schedules don't match up. The term "social jetlag" was created by Dr. Till Roenneberg of the University of Munich’s Institute of Medical Psychology, in Germany.
Doctors and researchers say that instead of your body following its internal clock, sleeping and waking by circadian rhythm, you're forced to adhere to schedules and rely on alarm clocks.

So instead of your body getting the amount of sleep it requires, its often experiencing a sleep deficit. Dr. Roenneberg feels society would be healthier and more productive if early birds and night owls were able to work schedules that align with their personal body rhythms and sleep schedules.Research conducted by the CDC shows, 41 million American workers don't get enough sleep, and 2/3 of the population experiences social jetlag. Inconsistency in sleep schedules is similar to what shift workers experience and has been linked to an increase in obesity and diabetes.

How can you combat social jetlag?

Spend more time outside during the day or sit by a window, to keep your internal body clock on track
Keep the same sleep schedule 7 days a week
No television or computer at least an hour before bed time

Do you experience social jetlag?

What Makes Our Memory Foam Safe?

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Today you can't turn on the television, go to the grocery store, or read a magazine without hearing buzz words like organic, environmentally friendly, low VOCs, etc. Sometimes I feel like you need a translator with you to understand what those words mean, and why they're important to us and our well being. Just because a product claims to be "organic" doesn't mean its true. We know you're concerned about using the best and safest products for you and your family, which is why all of our memory foam is CertiPUR-US®.

Alright, so what the heck does that mean to you? Simply put, it means the memory foam in Nature's Sleep mattresses, pillows and other foam products has been independently tested, and is free of mercury, lead and heavy metals, with low VOCs. What are VOCs? Volatile organic compounds that include multiple chemicals, which may have short- and long-term adverse health effects including allergies, an impact on the central nervous system, and more.

Our memory foam is made without: ozone depleters, PBDE flame retardants, formaldehyde, and prohibited pthalates. You can rest soundly on our memory foam knowing, you're sleeping on a safe, quality product.

All Nature’s Sleep Memory Foam products feature high density Advanced Visco Technology and are CertiPUR-US® accredited and certified.

CertiPUR-US® certification is based on:

Standard chemical analysis
Emissions evaluation
Environmental guidelines
Physical performance testing
Compliance affidavits
Random verification

We're also committed to protect and conserve our valuable resources, and we work hard to reduce our carbon footprint. That's why we vacuum pack and seal your mattresses, so they take less space, and use less fuel to ship and deliver right to your door.

How important is it to you to but products that are safe for your family and the environment?

Harmful Effects Of Sleep Deprivation

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 13:00:00 GMT

It's no secret that sleep is important to staying healthy, but did you know how harmful lack of sleep really is?Not sleeping enough can actually kill you?! Besides the fact that you're more likely to doze off while driving, your concentration is significantly lower, and your memory declines with less sleep, there are numerous health issues. I know my mood and productivity is much better after a good night's sleep, but I had no idea how many risk factors increase when I'm not sleeping enough.

Risk Factors Associated with Sleep Deprivation (less than 6 hrs of sleep per night):

Risk of stroke for adults sleeping less than 6 hrs a night on a regular basis, increases by 4 times!
Cravings for junk food and your body's ability to limit portions as more of the hunger hormone ghrelin is produced
Linked to an increase in polyps and risk for colorectal cancer
Studies show that men who average less than 6 hrs of sleep are four times more likely to die younger than those sleeping 7+ hours
Increase in psychological disorders such as depression, overeating, irritability, hallucinations and more
Heart disease ricks increases by 48% in those sleeping 6 hours or less
Lack of sleep affects the way your body processes insulin, increasing your rick for diabetes
A study of rats showed bone damage in those not getting enough sleep with an increased risk of osteoporosis
A cumulative sleep deficit has been linked to permanent memory loss

Remember your mattress, and pillow, can impact the quality and quantity of your sleep. The average adult needs 8-10 hours of sleep per night for their body to re-charge properly. Our memory foam mattresses can help relieve pressure points, helping you to fall asleep faster and awake feeling refreshed. Research ahs shown every hour you sleep before 11 p.m. is worth two hours afterwards!

How much sleep do you average each night?

Are You Napping On The Job?

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Have you ever fallen asleep at your desk while at work? How many times have you spent your lunch hour in your car, trying to catch a quick cat nap? You're not alone, in a 2010 survey by the National Sleep Foundation 30 percent of workers surveyed reported falling asleep in the office or being exhausted while on the job.I'm sure all of us at one point or another have witnessed a co-worker doze off during a meeting, I know I have on several occasions. In the past companies, have suspended or disciplined employees caught dozing on the job. In a recent study by Harvard University, research indicated sleep deficits impact the bottom line of American companies by approximately $63.2 billion a year in lost productivity!

With recent studies showing an increase involving injuries in the workplace related to fatigue, some companies are considering instituting mandatory afternoon naps. A mandatory afternoon nap? Maybe some of life's best lessons, really are learned in kindergarten like, "take a nap every afternoon."

In China, many companies have set times when employees are required to turn off their lights and rest their heads on their desks. In the U.S. many companies are converting storage closets into designated nap areas for their employees. A recent survey showed 34% of employers allow their staff to take naps, with 16% of them creating specific rooms for naps. Major companies like Nike, Google and Ben & Jerry's all provide their employees with pods or special areas where they can enjoy an afternoon siesta.

Tips for optimizing afternoon nap time:

Ideal amount of shut eye for a nap is 20-30 minutes
Find a dark quite spot, our brains produce more melatonin when its dark
After lunch is the best time for a nap
Remember to set an alarm, so you don't oversleep
Avoid caffeine 3-4 hours before your nap

Does your office allow you to nap while at the office?

How Can You Make The Snoring Stop?

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Snoring is unpleasant for both the person snoring, and the person that's trying to drown out the noise. Did you know approximately 30 percent of people thirty and older snore? In the middle aged population, 40% snore. Studies also show that 2/3 of all adults in a relationship report their partner's snore. As someone in that two thirds percentage, I'm always researching ways to prevent or reduce the dreaded sound coming from the other side of the bed.

While it can be fun to joke about how loud your spouse or relative snores: "My hubby snores so loudly, the neighbors called and asked us to turn down the television," losing sleep because your partner is snoring, is nothing to laugh about.

Since, I'm sure a lot of you can relate, here are some tips to prevent snoring:

Sleeping on your side or with your head elevated can reduce or prevent snoring (of course the problem is when the person changes sleep positions and the snoring resumes)
Lose weight-the loss of as little as 5-8 pounds has been linked to decreasing or eliminating snoring in some
Smoking can lead to nasal and lunc congestion, as well as constriction of your muscles that cause snoring
Sinus and nasal congestion can lead to snoring, try using steam or a saltwater sinus rinse to clear and relax your airway
Alcohol consumption, sleeping pills and other sedatives relaxes your neck muscles and increase snoring
Sleep with your bed or head elevated about 4 inches
Change your pillows, allergens like dust mites have been linked to snoring
Memory foam pillows are known to help reduce snoring by providing better neck and spine alignment

These solutions won't help everyone. Some people snore due to a health related issue like sleep apnea, and may need to consult with their physician for treatment.

Do you or your spouse snore?

Save 58% On Our Queen Memory Foam Topper

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 02:39:36 GMT

If you're tossing and turning at night, taking hours to fall asleep, and waking up tired and in pain, you probably need a new mattress. Not ready to purchase a new mattress, our memory foam mattress topper with 2.75" thick foam adjusts to your body. A firm mattress can be made plusher and more comfortable with a memory foam topper.

Don't worry about the topper slipping and sliding off the bed, ours comes with a plush, microfiber cover that slides over the topper and your mattress to keep everything in place. Right now, you can purchase our 2.75 queen memory foam topper from Google Offers for $149 ($360 value). This deal ends 4/29/13.

The fine print: Limit 3 offers per person; 2 additional as gifts. Limit 1 offer per order at naturessleep.com. Valid online only. Shipping included. Allow 3-7 business days for delivery.

Save 50% On Your Entire Order With Our Spring Sale

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 20:47:34 GMT

We're having a huge spring sale, that starts today 4/9 and runs through 4/23. You can save 50% on your entire order, and enjoy Free Shipping when you use coupon code APRIL50!

If you read our blog, you know its recommended to replace your pillows every twelve months, and your mattress every 5-6 years. Now's the perfect time to replace your mattress, with one of our memory foam mattresses and stock up on new pillows! What will you order during our sale?

Announcing The Nature's Sleep Ambassadors

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 14:04:39 GMT

Nature's Sleep is proud to announce our first round of 2013 Nature's Sleep Ambassadors. We really look forward to reading what the following awesome bloggers have to say about our memory foam products.

How Important Is A Good Pillow?

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 13:00:00 GMT

No one goes to bed thinking, I hope I wake up in the morning with a stiff neck and feeling exhausted. Sleeping on the right pillow, can make a huge difference in how refreshed you feel, and ready to take on the day.

Did you know that your pillow should be replaced every twelve months? While your old pillow may still provide you with ample support, it may also be harboring mildew, mold, fungus, dust mites and those yucky old skin cells.

Have you ever wondered how important a good pillow is to your quality of sleep? For years, I was so in love with my pillow that it went everywhere with me. I carried it on buses, airplanes, in the car to a friend's house overnight, or while on vacation. But as the years went by it started getting flatter, lumpier, and wasn't providing my neck or back with the support they needed. The result, I started experiencing headaches, neck pain, back pain, and regular fatigue. And I don't even want to think about how many dust mites were using my pillow as a habitat!

So what type of pillow is the right pillow for you? Experts often recommend a thicker, firmer pillow for side sleepers, in order to provide proper head and neck alignment. When sleeping on your side the most important area for support is between your head and your ear. Some say that if you sleep on your stomach, you don't even need a pillow, although that's not the case for everyone. If you'd prefer to have a pillow, but sleep on your stomach, choosing a flatter pillow will help keep your head from being at an awkward angle.

Regardless of your sleep position, there are multiple advantages to using a memory foam pillow:

High density pressure relieving memory foam
Naturally hypoallergenic, anti-bacterial and dust-mite resistant
Designed with TWO covers for increased longevity
Covers are removable so they can be washed

We offer seven different types of memory foam pillows, so there's an option for everyone. The Vitex Memory Foam Pillow provides head and neck support with a soft, plush feel. Our Faux Down Memory Foam pillow is called the teddy bear" of pillow. Its filled with micro-gel fibers that cradle your head and neck.

Memory Foam's Out of This World Origins

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Its amazing what we've been able to accomplish and develop with technology over the last 50 years. Memory foam, for example, was first designed in 1966 for use in providing cushioning and support in NASA's airplane seats. In an effort to provide better protection against G-forces, as well as increase likelihood of surviving a crash, aeronautical engineer Charles Yost, created an open-cell, polymeric "memory" foam material. The foam was capable of absorbing an unusually high amount of energy, while remaining soft and pliable.

Originally the material was referred to as "slow spring back foam," since it would contour to the whatever applied pressure on it, and then slowly return to its original form. The "memory foam" material used today has seen many advancements, including its ability to return to its original shape much faster than the original product. Today ,the foam is still used at NASA, in several areas, including a special 4-inch-thick cushion floor made of temper foam. The foam floor is used as part of an obstacle course that allows doctors to evaluate astronaut's mobility and equilibrium following their flight. In the 80s NASA made the technology available to the general public, and its use became widespread.

A few benefits of memory foam:

Memory foam conforms to the body reducing pressure points and tension
Provides support without pressure and natural alignment of the back, spine and neck
More durable and lasts longer than traditional mattresses
Resists motion transfer

Today, the memory foam material continues to evolve as mattress manufacturer's work with cutting edge technology designed to promote better sleep, health and well-being. Our memory foam mattresses are made using large, open cells to keep you cooler. The gel spheres in our Diamond Gel Mattress, capture your body's heat and release it away from your core to provide you with a cool comfortable night's sleep. So when friends say they had an "out of this world" experience on their memory foam mattress, well in a way, they did.

Consumer Reports Says 1 in 5 People Bought the Wrong Mattress

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Did you know one of the toughest items to purchase is a mattress? While a good night's sleep is priceless, unfortunately most of us can't afford to spend big bucks on a mattress that needs to be replaced every 5-7 years. Trying to find the best mattress and compare its feel and features is a lot more difficult than choosing the right car or big screen television. The reason: every individual has a different body shape and different needs they are trying to meet.

Consumer Reports recently reported about one in five people wished they’d purchased a different mattress. That's roughly 40% of new mattress owners that experienced buyer's remorse. So, what can you do to make sure you choose the right mattress?

Recent studies,by Research Triangle Institute, have shown that spending 10-15 minutes on a bed in the store may not be a true indicator for determining sleep comfort. As you sleep your body and your sleep habits change, which is something that can't be simulated when lying on a showroom mattress in front of strangers. Therefore more often than not, shoppers choose a mattress that doesn't minimize overnight motion, which leads to buyer's remorse.

Here are a few tips from the latest research by Consumer Reports:

You should buy a new mattress if your current bed is sagging, lumpy, you wake up feeling tired, or if your bed is 5-7 years or older.
More coils, fancier fabrics and frills found on more expensive models don’t guarantee a better mattress
Firmest mattresses aren't always the best fit, even for individuals who experience chronic back pain
If you're switching from an innerspring mattress, to a memory foam mattress, consider using a solid platform to provide adequate support
Consumer Reports reported memory foam mattresses are a favorite among people who suffer from pain.

What do you consider when purchasing a new mattress?

SLIP INTO SPRING AND SAVE 75% ON OUR SLIPPERS

Sun, 31 Mar 2013 00:30:20 GMT

So most of us know that even though the calendar says Spring has arrived, the groundhog may have been a little wrong with his prediction this year. There have been snow storms on the the Northeast, the Midwest and unusually cool temps in the Southeast.

While we can't control the weather, we can have a sale to help you "slip into spring." If your weather is still cold or your feet just need pampering, now's the time to order a pair of our cozy, comfy memory foam slippers and save 75% with coupon code SLIP75 and enjoy free shipping. What color and style will you order? Our memory foam slippers make great gifts, and Mother's Day is around the corner.

Oh and by the way its never too early to order for Christmas!

The Creepy Facts About Bed Bugs

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 13:00:00 GMT

As a child, when my parents tucked us in at night they would always say "don't let the bed bugs bite." Never in a million years, did I imagine bed bugs were real bugs that not only bite, but can live almost anywhere. It's probably a good thing I didn't know, I might not have ever gone to sleep! Today, bed bug infestations are on the rise, with new cases popping up all over the United States.

Just the Facts on Bed Bugs:

Roughly oval in shape
Become swollen and reddish with blood after feeding
Infestations can occur anywhere and have been reported in: Broadway theaters, college dorms, buses, trains, daycares, hotels, etc.
Adults can lay anywhere from 10-50 eggs that hatch in 6-17 days
Bed bugs can produce three or four generations in one year.
Getting rid of them is expensive, in the thousands of dollars, depending on the infestation
An adult bedbug can survive up to one year without feeding.
Bed Bugs are fast runners and often difficult to detect
Bed bugs can survive temperatures of nearly freezing up to 122 degrees Fahrenheit

You could have bed bugs without even knowing about them. Ewwww! When they bite you, if you're allergic you'll see red welts, but some people don't experience a reaction at all. Its important to frequently inspect your mattress seams for spots, and any signs of bed bug activity.

Prevention is key when it comes to avoiding those pesky pets that give me the willies just thinking about them. At hotels/resorts, thoroughly check the sheets and inspect the mattress seams, for any stains or spots. If you find anything, notify management and changes rooms or hotels as soon as possible. When returning from a trip, vacuum and or steam your luggage, and wash all of your clothing. After you purchase new clothing from a store, consider washing or having the clothes laundered immediately.

Have you ever seen a bed bug in your home or at a hotel?

Have you met our Newest Mattress?

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 15:00:00 GMT

Do you find it hard to get cool at night? When you lay down, do you feel like your mattress is your friend providing comfort and support, or your enemy, making you hot and uncomfortable? The right temperature is critical to getting a good night's sleep. Research indicates the ideal bedroom temperature for optimum sleeping conditions is between 60-68 degrees. However even if the room is cool, if your mattress isn't supportive or capable of capturing your body heat, sleep may remain difficult.

Researchers found that people suffering from insomnia tend to have a warmer core body temperature right before bed than average sleepers,which results in difficulty falling asleep as the body works to reset its internal thermostat. Introducing the newest mattress in our line, the Glacier Memory Foam Mattress has the latest technology in memory foam for 2013.

Features of the Glacier Memory Foam Mattress:

Rated Comfort: Medium-Plush
Proprietary combination of Nature’s Sleep Visco Memory Foam and AGT Gel Memory Foam
Unique Gel Spheres capture heat for cool comfort
380gm Tencel branded natural fiber technology cover wicks away moisture and is removable and washable
Pressure relieving comfort from edge to edge for optimal support
Naturally conforms to your body weight and temperature
Evenly distributes weight to relieve pressure points and reduce pain for a better night’s sleep
Ideal mattress for those that suffer from illnesses that cause sleeplessness
Provides a moderately Plush feel and ideal support
Eco-Friendly and CertiPUR-US® approved
Cover is anti-microbial with a non-skid bottom and can be zippered off and washed
Comes with a 20 year limited warranty

Our newest memory foam mattress is available in: Twin XL, Queen, King, and California King. It has 3.5” Proprietary Nature’s Sleep Advanced Gel Technology Gel Infused Aerated Memory Foam and 8.5” High Density Foam Core adds Natural Support.

What do you set your thermostat on at night?

Kick off Spring with Savings of 45%

Sat, 23 Mar 2013 13:00:00 GMT

The birds are chirping, the sun is out, and its time for us to start waking up from our winter hibernation. Spring is a great time for a fresh start! So we want to give you a 45% off coupon, valid through 3/30 to use on your entire order! Now you can shop for a new memory foam mattress, memory foam pillows, and if the groundhog was wrong in your neck of the woods and its still cold, grab some slippers to keep your feet cozy and warm!

Use coupon code 45OFF to save 45% and Free Shipping!

Best Bedtime Snacks That Help You Sleep

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 13:00:00 GMT

I don't know about you but regardless of how busy I am during the day, sometimes sleep is still elusive. After reading for 20-30 minutes, and tossing and turning I'm looking for another solution to help me get to sleep, the sooner the better. So after telling you what you should avoid before bedtime, I thought it might be helpful to share what you can eat, to cure the munchies and help you sleep. While I realize the foods that help you sleep aren't as exciting, as say the chocolate you need to avoid, I don't make the rules, I'm just the messenger.

Going to bed hungry can actually interfere with your quality of sleep and wake you unnecessarily. Doctors and nutritionists agree that a 200 calorie snack that contains potassium/complex carbohydrates/tryptophan/melatonin are beneficial to helping you get a restful night's sleep. Just remember that drinking too much milk, or water with your snack can increase your trips to the bathroom during the night.

You know that feeling that sometimes overcomes you after eating Thanksgiving dinner? You feel like you could slip into a food coma and sleep until next turkey day. Well its caused by the tryptophan in the turkey, which converts to serotonin and melatonin, natural chemicals that signal your brain to relax. Complex carbohydrates found in whole grain foods, like whole wheat crackers, beans and whole grain pastas also promote serotonin production.

Foods to eat that help you sleep:

Bananas, nuts, seeds, honey and eggs contain tryptophan
Low fat cheese stick
Turkey
Greek yogurt
Cottage cheese
Reduced fat popcorn
Whole wheat crackers and peanut butter
A bowl of whole grain cereal with milk
Cherries or a glass of cherry juice (tart fruit increases melatonin) the hormone that makes you feel tired
Glass of milk (milk also contains tryptophan)
Sweet potatoes (contain complex carbohydrates, and potassium which relaxes your muscles)
Pretzels

What's your favorite bedtime snack?

Win a Brand New Sapphire Gel Mattress

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 20:30:55 GMT

Everything improves with a good night's sleep, your health, attitude, the way you feel, way you look, and even your ability to think properly. How many times have you thought, "we need a new mattress, but it's just not in the budget right now?" Well, have you entered our Nature's Sleep sweepstakes? You could be the lucky winner of our sapphire gel mattress!

While some of you are thinking, but I never win anything, well you definitely can't win, if you don't enter...and there's nothing to lose, so enter and then tell your friends to increase your chances! The more you share, the more entries you'll receive! So tell your family, your friends, and complete strangers, to increase your chances.

The Sapphire, gel infused, memory foam mattress is the ultimate in cool pressure-free sleeping comfort. Made using our proprietary combination of Nature’s Sleep Visco Memory Foam and AGT Gel Memory Foam, the unique gel spheres capture heat to provide a cool, supportive environment for your body. This mattress is unlike any other, and provides all the benefits of memory foam as well as luxurious comfort.

The sweepstakes ends May 15, 2013 at 11:59 pm EST, then a winner will be drawn at random. We'll e-mail the lucky winner and they'll have 48 hours to respond before we choose another winner. The winner will be posted on our blog within 14 days after the sweepstakes has ended.

Read our sweepstakes rules to learn more and good luck!

Congratulations to Katrina Moss the winner of our sweepstakes that ended on 3/15/13!

Save up to 67% on TWO ViscoLite Pillows With Groupon

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 16:53:15 GMT

Have you started your spring cleaning? Well its probably time to throw out those old, dust mite infested pillows and replace them with our memory foam pillows. So we've got a Groupon deal for you, save up to 67% off TWO Nature's Sleep ViscoLite Memory foam pillows with FREE SHIPPING on Groupon for two days! Act Now! http://gr.pn/XU9PzQ

Sleep: What Matters Most Quantity vs. Quality

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Would you rather have three burned filet mignon steaks or one cooked to perfection? How about 10 fake diamonds or one flawless jewel? Both are personal questions that don't have right or wrong answers, but with most things, the majority of people would prefer quality over quantity. That may be extremely true when it comes to sleep, and your body's need for better sleep rather than more time spent in bed.

How long you sleep, the position you prefer to sleep in, and how much sleep you require are all very personal. While some studies suggest 95 percent of people require at least six hours and, at the most, ten hours of sleep every night. You may find yourself functioning more efficiently with less than six or more than ten. Of course some people depending on whether they are parents, or experience issues sleeping find themselves forced to function on what they're able to fit into their schedule.

The sleep cycle consists of three stages: light sleep, rapid eye movement (REM) stage and deep sleep. Sleep studies have shown that during the REM stage, a person processes and develops their emotions and creativity. During the deep sleep stage, the body spends time focused on healing, rebuilding and producing hormones essential to human growth.

New parents, or those with sleep disorders like sleep apnea, insomnia, or other health issues, might be asleep for 7-9 hours but they experience fragmented sleep, and miss out on restorative sleep. Experts recommend you try and sleep in 90 minute increments so your sleep cycles aren't interrupted, i.e. if you need to wake up at 7AM, you should go to bed at 10 PM or 11:30.

More tips to improve your quality of sleep include:

Follow a nightly routine
Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time consistently
Avoid watching teleivision or during on the Internet at least an hour before bedtime
Don't eat a heavy meal close to bedtime, but also don't go to bed hungry
Maintain a bedroom temperature between 65-70 degrees
Sleep on a memory foam mattress that relieves pressure points

How many hours of sleep do you get a night?

Your Back and Neck Will Thank You

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Hours in front of your computer at home while surfing Pinterest and at work answering e-mails, take their toll on your back and neck.While going to the spa and getting a relaxing massage can help soothe those tense muscles, sleeping on the right pillow can help prevent them.

How many times during the night do you fluff your pillow because it’s become too flat? Do you find yourself using a pile of pillows to achieve a comfortable position?

Trying to sleep on a lumpy pillow is like trying to sleep on LEGOs under your sheets, next to impossible. Want to improve your quality of sleep and pamper your back and neck, try a memory foam pillow! A memory foam pillow is the perfect pillow for anyone with head or neck issues. Properties of the memory foam allow it to contour to your neck and shoulders relieving those painful pressure points.

Memory foam pillows are usually denser than feather pillows or regular foam pillows, which makes it heavier and more supportive. When you turn over or re-position yourself, the pillow adjusts with your position.

Benefits of a memory foam pillow:

Supports you by conforming to your shape based on your weight and temperature
Aligns your spine, head and neck and relaxes your muscles
Hypo-allergenic , anti-bacterial and resistant to dust mites
Reduces snoring
Don’t get lumpy or uneven like regular pillows
Memory foam pillows is very durable and lasts longer than traditional pillows
Increases blood flow which helps reduce headaches

Pillows are an important element to getting a good night’s rest and allowing your body to recover and recharge. The features of a memory foam pillow make sleeping easier and more comfortable. Our pillows are made with solid molded memory foam (not shredded foam) and high density pressure relieving memory foam.

When was the last time you replaced your pillow?

Save 50% on Your Entire Order

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 16:33:18 GMT

We've got another amazing sale for you, now through 3/16 when you use coupon code code SAVE50, you can save 50% on your entire order. Oh and to make it even more irresistible, shipping is also FREE! There's no reason to wait, go ahead and upgrade your mattress to a memory foam mattress, replace those worn out pillows with memory foam pillows, or try a memory foam topper in your guest room, on your sofa bed, or for your child's college dorm room!

What will you buy with our 50% off Sale?

Tips for Adjusting to Daylight Savings Time

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Yesterday you should have set your clocks forward as daylight savings time started at 2 AM. Now as spring approaches, the weather gets warmer and our days get longer. YAY for warmer weather and longer days, but boo for giving up an hour of sleep. While an hour doesn't seem like much time, research has shown that daylight savings time can cause all kinds of havoc from increased drowsiness, trouble sleeping, and a rise in traffic accidents.

The time change impacts everyone differently, but has the biggest impact on children's sleep schedules. Just when you thought you had the kids in a good bedtime routine, the time changes, and 60 minutes undoes all of your hard work, turning your angels into nighttime monsters. In adults, daylight savings time impacts your body kind of like jet lag, as it requires your body to start a new sleep schedule. Some sleep experts say it often results in our internal body clock feeling confused. Think of it like when your computer installs updates, and then has to be re-started before the changes take effect.

Research shows that losing an hour actually has a bigger impact on your body than gaining one in the fall.

Tips to Help Your Body Adjust to Daylight Savings:

Be active and use that extra time for physical activity
Avoid increasing your caffeine intake for 3-5 days after the time change
Light suppresses the sleep-inducing hormone melatonin, so expose yourself to light early in the day for wakefulness and avoid light, including from electronics in the evening hours
Increase your Vitamin D intake
Adjust your children’s bedtime, moving it up in 15 minute increments, four days before the time change
Go to bed earlier, even though falling asleep may be difficult
Try eating a healthy snack before bed like almonds, yogurt with berries, an apple with peanut butter, cherries, or whole grain cereal and milk

Does daylight savings time impact your sleep schedule? How do you adjust?

15 Fascinating Facts About Sleep

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 14:00:00 GMT

Everybody does it, everyone needs it, but what do we know about it? Sleep is a necessary evil, we require it to function properly and survive. The amount of sleep we get impacts everything including our moods, weight loss, brain function, cognitive development, memory,

If you fall asleep at night in under five minutes you're sleep deprived. It should take you between 10-15 minutes to fall asleep.
People can take cat naps with their eyes open without even being aware of it, which makes it impossible to know if someone’s asleep without using medical equipment to monitor their body
On average babies cause parents to lose 400-750 hours of sleep in the first year. Although, it may seem like a lot more when you’re the parent experiencing the loss of sleep!
Humans average three hours less sleep than other primates like chimps, rhesus monkeys, squirrel monkeys and baboons, those animals sleep around 10.
You can only dream about faces you have already seen.
In the first 5 minutes after you wake, you forget 10% of your dreams. After 10 minutes, you've forgotten 90% of your dreams.
When an elephant is standing it's in non-REM sleep, but it lies down during REM sleep.
Sleep deprivation has been linked to: The Challenger space shuttle disaster, the Chernobyl nuclear meltdown, and the 1989 Exxon oil spill
The record for the longest period without sleep was set during a rocking chair marathon and is 18 days, 21 hours, 40. The record holder reported experiencing hallucinations, blurred vision, paranoia, slurred speech and issues with memory and concentration.
Seventeen hours of sleep deprivation can result in a decrease in performance equal to a blood alcohol-level of 0.05%.
Estimates by the NRMA say fatigue is a factor in one in 6 fatal road accidents.
Snoring occurs only in non-REM sleep
It takes 2 weeks to die of starvation, but only 10 days from sleep deprivation.
Some research indicates women need 20 minutes to an hour of extra sleep per night more than men.
Sleep research is relatively new, most of what we know about sleep we've learned in the past 25 years.

Which of these facts surprises you the most?

Save 65% with Our March Madness Sale

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 14:36:46 GMT

Only a few weeks until the first day of Spring arrives, and its time to start spring cleaning. What better way to kick off Spring than with a brand new bed? Today for 24 hours only we're offering a totally "MAD" deal for you, with a coupon code for 65% off your entire purchase. So replace your old mattress with a new memory foam mattress, and toss out your lumpy pillows and swap them for memory foam pillows for less! Use coupon code MARCHMADNESS. (And remember we're only temporarily insane so the deal only last 24 hours)

What NOT to Eat Before Bedtime

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 14:00:00 GMT

How many of you enjoy a midnight snack or find yourself craving a snack before you climb into bed? You’re not alone! There seems to be something wired in your tummy that often causes it to rumble before going to sleep. This occurs frequently with children that want something sweet before drifting off to the land of dreams, or use snacks as a delay tactic.

Most of us know that eating before bedtime is not the healthiest or smartest decision, but many of us (including me) will do it anyway. Did you know that research has shown eating foods high in sugar before bedtime can give you nightmares?

Here are a few tips of foods to avoid before bedtime, so you don’t affect your quality or quantity of Zzzzzs:

Alcohol
Caffeine
Spicy Foods
Cereal
Chocolate
Ice Cream
Pasta
Celery
Pizza
Red Meat

While you might think alcohol helps you sleep, in reality it doesn't, and can cause you to wake up thirsty and dehydrated. Caffeine works as both a stimulant and diuretic, so not only does it suppress melatonin and confuse your body, it will also cause you to make more trips to the bathroom.

Chocolate is often a favorite treat before bedtime, especially when left on your pillow in a hotel, but remember its high in sugar and a stimulant that can make your heart race and prevent you from falling asleep. (Save it for breakfast instead)

Yes, those enchiladas and salsa tasted fantastic, but the heartburn that follows is a lot less fun. Eating spicy foods before bedtime increases your risk of heartburn, which makes sleeping difficult. Pizza is another food known to cause heartburn symptoms and indigestion.If you’re going to eat red meat, bedtime is a bad idea, because your body will need to work to aid with digestion, which can affect your sleep.

Cereal when eaten with milk can be a good bedtime snack, if it’s not high in sugar. Ice cream is full of fat and high in sugar, so that moment on your lips is headed straight for your hips! The carbs in pasta are great for providing you with energy during the day or before a workout, but before bedtime they will keep you tossing and turning.(even on a memory foam mattress)

What is your favorite bedtime snack?

Good Things Come in Small Packages

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 14:00:00 GMT

You know the saying “good things come in small packages”? I can think of several items this cliché’ applies to, jewelry, keys to a new car, a puppy, etc. The one thing that would never pop into my head with that expression is a mattress!

I guess that’s why so many people are surprised when they receive their memory foam mattress, and it’s not in a huge box that won’t fit up the stairs or through your front door. So, when your new mattress arrives in a small package from FedEx, don't panic. Don’t let the small package fool you, inside is one of the most comfortable beds you can purchase.

Memory foam mattresses from Nature’s Sleep are shipped compressed and vacuum-packed. They literally take a vacuum device and suck all the air out of the mattress cells. This cutting edge technology allows us to use less space when packaging your new bed, and reduces our carbon footprint.

Millions of tiny cells in the memory foam collapse under pressure and provides your body with comfort as it contours to your shape. Its ability to collapse and return to its original state when weight is removed, allows it be shipped in a box much smaller than the mattress.

Remove the packaging with care (be careful with box cutters or knives), so you don’t damage your mattress and then unroll it. When you remove your mattress, the foam absorbs the air as it decompresses to its actual size in minutes. By the way, it’s so cool to watch and your children will think its magic! Although, it only takes minutes for the bed to be its normal size, it can take 24 hours for the bed to lose its wrinkly appearance. (Don't you wish your wrinkles would disappear in 24 hours)

Of course, you’ll be so eager to get your sheets and comforter on, and check out your new mattress, its appearance will be the last thing on your mind as you drift off to sleep.

Memory foam was developed by NASA scientists to provide shock absorption for astronauts during take-off and landing
Memory foam is non-toxic
Memory foam softens as your body temperature rises, to provide a cradle for your body

What do you do to reduce your carbon footprint?

Buy One Pillow, Get One Free

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 21:03:05 GMT

Ready for a new pillow? Today through March 6, 2013 when you buy a new memory foam pillow through our site and use coupon code: BONUSPILLOW, you can get another pillow FREE! (must be like pillow) So what are you waiting for, swap out your old lumpy pillow with one of our memory foam pillows and start getting a better night's sleep. Plus, your spouse will think you're so thoughtful for replacing both pillows!

We have several sizes and shapes to match your personal sleep style!

Tips for Maintaining Your Memory Foam Mattress

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 14:40:00 GMT

You've bought your new memory foam mattress, and nights haven’t been the same since. Tossing and turning are distant memories, and mornings are bright and sunny. Your body has never felt better and your energy levels are full! Now that you’re the proud owner of a memory foam mattress, you've experienced its benefits, but need to know how to maintain it properly.

The good news, they're as easy to maintain as they are to sleep on!

Here are some helpful tips for maintaining your memory foam mattress:

Rotate the mattress from head to toe every 3 weeks to extend its lifespan
Vacuum your memory foam mattress
Wash the antimicrobial cover
Remove stains with a mild detergent and sponge
Use baking soda to dry liquids or remove odors

Pets are often like family and sleep beside you, on you, or at the foot of the bed. They often leave behind drool, fur, and uninvited guests like fleas!Remember this, the vacuum is your friend, and is one of the easiest ways to get rid of anything yucky on your mattress (like dead skin cells, dust, and pet hair) Instead of using your big bulky machine, try using a handheld vacuum to clean those hard to reach spots and maintain control.

Before you vacuum and on a routine basis, you’ll want to remove and wash the Antimicrobial Cotton Blend Cover on your Nature's Sleep memory foam mattress.

Kids, pet and even grown-ups often spill something while in bed. Let’s say your dog knocks over your sweet tea, with his wagging tail. Your mattress should be placed in the sun immediately so it will dry quickly. Remember to turn your mattress so that it will dry evenly.

But if your mattress gets wet at night (Murphy's Law), you can use baking soda on the wet spot to absorb the moisture. Just sprinkle on the baking soda, let it sit for 30-60 minutes and when it’s worked its magic, you’ll see a clump of baking soda. Now, just vacuum it up and voila’, you can re-make the bed and go to sleep! Baking soda also absorbs odors, so if you spilled pickle juice, definitely use some baking soda before drying the mattress.

If there’s an accident and a stain gets on your memory foam mattress, don’t use commercial products that contain harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia. Instead attack the stain with a mild detergent like dish-washing liquid. Mix the dish-washing soap with water until you have bubbles. Then use a clean sponge, to dip into the bubbles and clean using a circular motion from the outermost portion of the stain towards the interior of it. You don’t want to use the actual liquid solution, only the bubbles. (Just think bubbles are magical)

You can also try a water and vinegar mixture. Mix water and vinegar in a spray bottle and then spray the mattress lightly. Use an absorbent cloth to quickly scrub the stain. The vinegar will help dilute the stain and will also soak up any unpleasant odor.

With proper care and maintenance, you and your memory foam mattress can have a long, beneficial relationship. What's the worst thing you've ever spilled while in bed?

Why Am I So Tired?

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 15:00:00 GMT

Last night, you went to bed at 11 PM, and you followed all the steps for a successful night’s sleep. You followed a routine that included winding down before bed. Instead of watching the lasts episode of your favorite program, you read some of the magazines that had been piling up on the nightstand.

You avoided snacking after 7 PM, drank your last caffeinated beverage at 4 PM, and worked out on your lunch break. So, the question is, why do you still feel exhausted? While, you followed most of the successful rules for a getting a good night’s sleep, the problem may be your mattress.

If your mattress isn't providing you with enough support, or the springs are poking and pushing you, your quality of sleep is directly affected. So even though you did everything right, and spent 8-10 hours asleep, it was more quantity than quality.

Memory Foam Mattresses Improve Quality Sleep

A memory foam mattress can feel like sleeping on a cloud as it relieves your pressure points
The amount of time you spend tossing and turning can be reduced by 75% (spend that energy in the gym instead)
As the mattress contours to your body’s shape, it has a relaxing effect on your brain and body
Your memory foam mattress contains less allergens than a traditional mattress, and allergies often equal fatigue

Yes, buying a new mattress is an investment, but it’s an investment in your health, your well-being, and your future. Quality sleep makes you happier (bring grumpy isn't fun), more productive, increases memory retention, and also gives your body time to heal. When you think about how much time you spend sleeping (1/3 of your life) versus time spent on other activities, it makes sense to buy a quality mattress that contributes to your quality of life!

Remember those old credit card commercials? New flat screen TV $1500, new smartphone $300, dinner and a movie $100 (babysitters are expensive), a good night’s sleep…PRICELESS.

How many hours of sleep do you get a night?

Save 62% on a Memory Foam Mattress with Living Social

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 15:00:00 GMT

Are you ready to take advantage of a sweet deal on a new memory foam mattress? Right now through 3/11 you can purchase a voucher from Living Social and save 62% on one of our memory foam mattresses! You can choose from a slightly firm, 8-inch-thick memory-foam mattress in five sizes or a plush 11-inch-thick memory-foam mattress in three sizes!

All of your mattress choices are made from state-of-the-art advanced visco technology memory foam that conforms to your body to provide support for a good night's sleep.

Living Social Deal Includes:

8-Inch Twin Memory-Foam Mattress OR 8-Inch Twin XL Memory-Foam Mattress for $339
8-Inch Full Memory-Foam Mattress for $379
8-Inch Queen Memory-Foam Mattress for $389
8-Inch King Memory-Foam Mattress for $479
11-Inch Queen Memory-Foam Mattress for $559
11-Inch King Memory-Foam Mattress for $649
11-Inch California King Memory-Foam Mattress for $699

Fine Print: Limit 3 per customer, up to 2 additional as gifts

Limit 1 per transaction

Includes shipping to continental U.S.

Please allow 3 weeks for shipping

Entire value must be used in a single visit

Mattress Topper Living Social Deal

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 16:43:58 GMT

Check out the smokin' hot deal on our memory foam mattress topper on Living Social. Now through February 26, you can purchase a voucher for a full, queen, king, or California king size premium mattress topper.

$149 ($360 value) for a queen-size premium memory-foam mattress topper
$139 ($320 value) for a full-size premium memory-foam mattress topper
$179 ($440 value) for a king-size premium memory-foam mattress topper
$189 ($480 value) for a California king-size premium memory-foam mattress topper
CertiPUR-US-approved 2.75" topper is 100% pure memory foam
Includes plush, machine-washable cover

The fine print: Deal dates 1/29- 2/26

Limit 3 per customer, up to 2 additional as gifts (great gifts)

Limit 1 per transaction

Flat-rate shipping of $8

Entire value must be used in a single visit

Voucher must be redeemed by 5/27/13

Are you Ready to Take the Plunge?

Mon, 18 Feb 2013 14:00:00 GMT

Are you ready for a change, but having commitment issues? No, I'm not talking about your personal relationships. I'm talking about switching from a traditional mattress to a memory foam mattress. Buying a mattress is a big commitment, and an investment in your future. And, well, change is hard for some, we get that.

Want to ease into change, the way you walk slowly into a pool of icy cold water , until you can tolerate complete submersion? Not ready to purchase a new bed, but yours has seen better days and nights? You should give a memory foam topper a test drive! Well, not literally, but you know what I mean,

Memory foam toppers are a great solution for a mattress that's too firm. The bed you've told others is "hard as concrete" can be transformed into a pillow top with a memory foam mattress topper. They're also great to put on the floor in your living room for the kid's sleepover. Or adding cushion to that sleeper sofa that currently feels like a torture device. Of course, remember the more comfortable the sofa or guest room, the longer visitors will stay!

Benefits of a Memory Foam Topper Include:

The opportunity to find out how you like memory foam, for the fraction of the price of a memory foam mattress
Great option as an “upgrade” for your guest room or sleeper sofa
Memory foam topper, isolates movement which reduces sleep disturbances by a restless bed partner (or your four legged friend that likes to get up and down off the bed at night)
Affordable solution for college students trying to improve the dorm mattress
Extend the life of a worn out mattress
Reduce pressure and provide additional support
Provides relief from back, neck, and joint pain
Resists dust mites and household allergens

Could you use a memory foam topper?

Start Your New Life with a New Mattress

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 15:00:00 GMT

You just got married, the wedding was beautiful, and everyone's talking about how happy you guys look together! Congratulations, by the way. You and your spouse, spent your honeymoon having fun, relaxing and talking about the future. Now you're home, back to reality, and sorting through that pile of wedding gifts: three toasters, six vases, ten frames, 2 blenders, and miscellaneous other items. Does this sound familiar?

As you take inventory, and prepare to return the duplicates, and items that will spend more time in storage than in use, think about what you'll need to start your new life together. One of the biggest and best purchases you can make is a new mattress. Since you are newlyweds, you'll probably be spending a lot of time in the bedroom, right?

Sleeping together as couple can take some getting used to, as you both learn which side the other prefers, and if either of you is a cover thief. If you and your spouse have been used to sleeping separately, memory foam mattresses are an excellent choice. Why? So when one of you is tossing and turning, sumo wrestling, or running a marathon in your sleep (way to multi-task), your movement won't disturb the other person!

While a traditional innerspring mattress may creak or squeak, and shift with the slightest movement, a memory foam mattress doesn't move or make noise. No more elbowing your significant other and begging them to "stay still", with the no vibrations benefit. Memory foam mattresses contour to each individual body separately, which totally eliminates disrupting the person beside you.

Things Newlyweds Should Consider When Deciding to Purchase a new bed:

You spend a 1/3 of your life sleeping, so make it count
You'll toss and turn 75% less on a memory foam mattress than with innerspring mattresses
No one wants to get married and spend their new lives sleeping on your old mattress from college, or the bed you bought with your ex-girlfriend
A memory foam mattress is quiet, no box springs = no noise when you're intimate (well at least no noise caused by the bed)

One of the biggest mistakes made by couple's mattress shopping, is choosing the wrong size. All couples, whether newly married or those married for decades, should choose their new mattress together. Think about what each of you wants in terms of personal space, firmness and support.

Did you know that when a couple shares a full size mattress or a double, each person has about as much room as in a baby's crib? YIKES! Do you have enough room in your bed?

Does Your Mattress Have One?

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 19:55:00 GMT

Milk, eggs, orange juice, bread, even medication have them...does your mattress? Have what...an expiration date! If you go into your bedroom right now, and check the tags, will you find a "best when used by" date on your mattress? The answer is, wait, how many of you are actually checking your bed right now; you can stop, because you won't find an expiration date.

So, how are you supposed to know when it's time for your bed to hit the road? Well, that depends on several factors like:

How often is the mattress used?
Have you lost or gained a significant amount of weight?
Did you take care of it or use it as a trampoline?
Has it been the victim of spilled food or drinks?
Was it stored in an environment that wasn't temperature controlled, like a garage, storage unit, car? Tip: your garage is for your car, not your mattress.
Is it sagging or lumpy? Mashed potatoes and mattresses should never be lumpy!
Is your mattress discolored? Think about it this way, you wouldn't want to spend the night in a hotel with a lumpy or discolored mattress, so why would you sleep on one in your own home?
Are the springs exposed?
Do you sleep better on your couch or at your in-laws house than in your own bed?

These are all signs that's its time to shop for a new bed. According to the Better Sleep Council, the average mattress lifespan is "five to seven years." Of course there are different factors that come into play, for example a mattress in the guest room will typically last longer (unless your guest room is a busy as a hotel.)

However, memory foam mattresses are known for their durability and longevity (often lasting up to 20 years), again it boils down to quality! Mattresses with higher density memory foam will last longer than a cheaper mattress, layered with inexpensive fillers. When shopping for a new mattress, remember quality equals quantity.: better sleep, plus a mattress with a longer lifespan. How old is your mattress?

Top 10 Reasons Nature's Sleep is the Perfect Valentine's Gift

Thu, 07 Feb 2013 15:32:00 GMT

Valentine's Day is right around the corner, and its time to start thinking about a gift for your sweetheart. Newsflash, do NOT wait until the last minute, race into the grocery store, and buy flowers that are already dying and the closest box of chocolates to the register. Taking time to choose the right gift that shows you care, gets you extra brownie points. When choosing a Valentine's Day gift for your sweetheart, why not think outside the box, and give a gift that you'll both enjoy?

What could be a better gift than a good night's sleep? Seriously, quality sleep is PRICELESS! A memory foam mattress or memory foam pillow are gifts that keep on giving. The flowers are overpriced and will be dead in a few days, the chocolates are unhealthy and are definitely not in line with your diet, but everyone enjoy's quality sleep.

Top 10 Reasons Nature's Sleep is the Perfect Valentine's Day Gift

A new memory foam mattress is something that benefits both of you for years.
Flowers, chocolate and jewelry are so been there, done that! Everyone gets tired of receiving the same gifts every Valentine's Day.
Imagine the look on your significant other's face when they climb into the new bed
Romance happens in the bedroom, so why not upgrade your mattress and enhance the ambiance?
Women love surprises and buying a new bed, is a way to show you're thinking about her well-being
A new memory foam mattress will be his/her favorite gift yet!
You've already upgraded, your phone, television, and computer, its time to pay attention to the bedroom!
Memory foam pillows reduce snoring, and less snoring is a great gift!
Because there's not enough room in your current bed for you and the kids
A new memory foam mattress is a great reason to celebrate Valentine's Day by staying in together, instead of in a crowded restaurant or theater

What's the best Valentine's Day gift you've ever received?

Memory Foam Can Help Reduce Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 15:00:00 GMT

Imagine hurting all over, in your shoulders, neck, arms, legs, feeling like someone took a bag of oranges or a baseball bat and beat you up! You may have experienced those symptoms during a bout with the flu, but for someone with Fibromyalgia, the pain doesn't go away in a week. Unfortunately, around 2% of the population or 5.8 million Americans, suffer from Fibromyalgia, with higher occurrences in women than men.

Ouch! What is Fibromyalgia? It's a chronic condition where muscles, tendons, ligaments, and soft tissues hurt, accompanied by joint stiffness, fatigue and tender points that are sensitive to the slightest pressure. Its more common in women, 20-50 years old. Symptoms include chronic fatigue, widespread pain, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, numbness and tingling, bowel and bladder issues like IBS, and more.

What causes this chronic condition? That's the million dollar question that patients and doctors are working to answer!

Possible causes or triggers of fibromyalgia include:

Physical or emotional trauma
Abnormal pain response - areas in the brain that are responsible for pain may react differently in fibromyalgia patients
Sleep disorders like sleep apnea, insomnia, restless legs syndrome, etc.
Infection like a virus, Lyme disease, etc., although no virus has been linked

How can a memory foam mattress reduce Fibromyalgia symptoms? In the 70s, NASA developed Memory Foam to cushion and protect astronauts from the harmful G-Forces experienced during take-off and re-entry.See, even NASA knows memory foam provides out of this world comfort! Later, the medical industry began using Memory Foam in hospital's mattresses for the soothing effects it provides bed-ridden patients, especially those with injuries limiting mobility. No one wants to be confined to a bed, but especially an uncomfortable bed!

Memory Foam is temperature sensitive, as your body temperature rises the mattress becomes softer. So as you sleep, the Memory Foam contours to the body and distributes your weight evenly to relieve pressure points. You may have heard people with memory foam mattresses rave about "melting" into their bed, they're referring to the mattress adapting to their individual bodies based on temperature, height, and weight. Its almost like having a custom made bed!

Traditional coil spring mattresses can be a Fibromyalgia patient's worst enemy! Instead of providing a cradle for your body, like a memory foam mattress, inner spring mattresses apply pressure to your body. You know how they feel like they're poking or sticking you? Adding pressure to already sensitive pressure points, can lead to increased inflammation and pain, which leads to more discomfort and trouble sleeping. Remember the classic fairytale of "The Princess and the Pea"?

There's no way to prevent or cure Fibromyalgia, but sleeping on a Memory Foam mattress can help relieve its symptoms of pain and fatigue. When considering a Memory Foam mattress, you should look for a mattress with a 4lb. or higher density rating. Not all memory foam mattresses are created equal, and quality is essential in finding an optimum balance between support and comfort.

If you are a Fibromyalgia patient, what type of mattress has helped improve your symptoms?

Consumer Reports Says Memory Foam Is All The Rage

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 17:28:14 GMT

Are you on the fence about purchasing a new mattress? Buying a new mattress isn't as simple as grocery shopping, where you go to the store, buy what's on the list and everyone's happy as long as you remembered their items. Other than reading the weekly ad, and clipping coupons, your weekly grocery trip probably doesn't require any research. Of course, being unhappy with a box of crackers is a lot different than choosing the wrong bed!

A good night's sleep is priceless, and mattress shopping is a much more personal experience that requires time and research. While you could ask your friends, neighbor's and family, what they like about their mattress, but you might get some strange looks!

No worries, let the experts at Consumer Reports share what they learned in a recent survey of 12,000 subscribers. The survey showed 75 percent of people who bought a new mattress are sleeping better. Does that mean new is better, not necessarily, it also revealed people who own memory-foam mattresses or air beds, said they slept better than on a traditional inner-spring mattress.

Advantages of memory foam mattresses include:

Better support for your entire body and relief on joints and pressure points
Temperature sensitive, a feature that enables the foam mattress to change based on the individual's bosy temperature, height and weight (like having a custom bed)
No more hard springs that dig and poke you in the night
Relief for allergies as memory foam mattresses don't provide room for dust mites to camp out (YUCK!)

When you think about the advances in technology and how we upgrade our cell phones, electronics, and cars to improve our comfort and productivity, it makes perfect sense that upgrading to a memory foam mattress, will improve the quantity and quality of your sleep. With hectic schedules and little down time, you want to get the best sleep possible.

What do you do first when shopping for a new mattress? Where do you do the most research when purchasing a mattress?

Choosing The Firmness For Your Memory Foam Mattress

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 14:11:00 GMT

If you are in the market to purchase a memory foam mattress, it is important to take firmness into consideration besides thickness and density. This will greatly impact of the experience you have with your memory foam mattress and whether your venture is a positive one.

The firmness in memory foam mattresses is calculated by its Indentation Load Deflection (ILD) rating. An appropriate ILD range is between 10 and 17. If the ILD is too low or too high it will compromise one of the memory foams most sought after features, the ability to contour to your body. An ILD to 12 is normally considered to be soft, while an ILD in the range of 13 to 15 would be considered normal, and a firm mattress is considered 16 and above.

Since ILD numbers may vary among manufacturers and are not always considered to be a guaranteed indicator of firmness, it is important to know what ILD means and how it can affect the experience you have with your memory foam mattress.

The ILD of a memory foam mattress boils down to the pressure resulting when a segment of foam is pressed down about 25 percent. In other words, if you have a mid-range memory foam mattress between 13 and 15 ILD, then it would take 13 to 15 pounds of pressure to indent the foam by 25 percent.

As mentioned above, a lower ILD rating normally indicates a softer memory foam mattress, while a higher rating is indicative of a mattress that is firmer. It is important to remember when purchasing a memory foam mattress, unlike the innerspring mattress, firmness cannot be the deciding factor. Firmness should certainly be considered, but thickness and density needs to be as well. All three of these components together are what is going to make the memory foam experience a positive one.

Sleep Tips During Pregnancy

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 14:19:49 GMT

When pregnant, nine months can feel like a lifetime before you get to see the arrival of your little one. Throughout those nine months you may experience many different side effects of pregnancy, such as nausea, swelling, backaches, and more. Many women also experience an inability to sleep due to discomfort. When pregnant and dealing with lack of sleep, those nine months can really seem unbearable. Here are some tips to help make your nights more restful and comfortable throughout pregnancy.

Gentle Exercise

it is important to get enough exercise to prevent joints and muscles from stiffening. This also helps to reduce the severity of leg cramps at night while pregnant. Whether your form of exercise is walking, swimming or a fitness class, if you are pregnant it is recommended that you exercise earlier in the day. By exercising earlier in the day it will ensure your nighttime sleep will not be interrupted.

Sleep Position

Finding a comfortable sleep position while pregnant can be a bit of a challenge. With the babies ever changing weight, finding comfort while sleeping is difficult. A comfortable position to sleep in is on your side with pillows positioned under your knee and belly for added support throughout the night.

Relaxation Techniques

Practicing sleep relaxation techniques such yoga, stretching or meditation can help your body unwind from a taxing day. These techniques will help you fall asleep a little more quickly.

Eat a Small Snack Before Sleeping

Traditionally a woman's appetite will increase while pregnant. The hunger pang can continue well into the night and start up again in the early hours of the morning while you are trying to get in your sleep. To help prevent these nighttime and early morning cravings try consuming a light snack before bedtime. Avoid sugary snacks since these can be stimulating for both you and your baby. Choosing a snack with plenty of protein and carbohydrates will help your tummy feel full for a longer period of time.

Memory Foam Mattress

Memory foam mattresses are known for helping to alleviate body aches and pains since they are able to bring attention to any pressure points, which can then be relieved. These premium mattresses will support you throughout your pregnancy since memory foam contours to the shape of your body providing maximum comfort levels.

Minimize Fluid Intake Before Bedtime

It is vital to remain hydrated throughout your pregnancy. However, you want to avoid drinking fluids prior to bedtime since it may cause additional trips to the bathroom throughout the night. Pregnant women usually already have a tendency to use the bathroom more frequently due to pressure on the bladder and increased blood flow. Limiting the amount of fluids in the evening will help reduce the number of nighttime trips.

Access to Fresh Air in Your Bedroom

Due to the acceleration of hormones during pregnancy, hot flashes and excess body heat are not uncommon. This can cause discomfort during the night. Having a bedroom window open or a ceiling fan on will allow fresh air to circulate around the room for a more enjoyable sleep.

Establishing A Better Sleep Routine As A New Year's Resolution

Tue, 08 Jan 2013 22:39:08 GMT

It is now two weeks into the New Year. How many of us have stayed committed to our New Year's Resolution so far? New Year's resolutions can be quite ambitious. It is nice to be able to tie in a new goal with a new year. However, keeping up with a resolution, forming a habit with it, for an entire year can be more difficult as the year progresses. Although, if you have a resolution to sleep better, that is one that will actually get easier as time goes on since once the initial routine is established, your body becomes accustomed to it. Forming a better sleep routine may also help you reach other potential targets for 2013, such as increased productivity and a healthier diet.

Routine is a necessary part of creating better quality of sleep, and it is the first step to successfully achieving your resolution. Maintaining a consistent bedtime and wake time that will allow you at least eight hours of sleep on a nightly basis can have a significant impact on alertness throughout the day. Initially, it may be a little difficult to fall asleep at a specific time each night but the more you stick to the routine, the more effortless it will become.

Another important step in creating a better sleep routine is taking steps to foster healthy sleep, while also avoiding any influences that could harm it. Such steps include maintaining a dark and quiet bedroom at night. Also, be sure to turn off computers, televisions, stereos, and mobile phones at lease one hour before bed. All of these components serve as distractions and do not allow your mind to relax, which means it may take longer for you to fall asleep when you go to bed. You can get more information on how to fall asleep naturally here.

Other things you should look at to assure you can achieve the best sleep possible are your pillow and mattress. Having a pillow that cradles your head and keeps your spine in alignment and your muscles relaxed, such as a pillow from the Nature's Sleep pillow collection will help you achieve a peaceful night's sleep. Sleeping on a Nature's Sleep memory foam mattress that conforms to your body weight and temperature will help relieve pressure points and reduce pain for a better night's sleep.

These are just some very simple tips for helping to create a better quality of sleep that will persist. Plus, a healthy sleep routine will help make you feel more alert and refreshed, meaning you will feel more productive at work. In general, these tips will be of at least some help to you.

How To Keep A Warm Bed At Night

Mon, 31 Dec 2012 14:42:57 GMT

Temperatures are getting frigid in many parts of the country. With that comes those nights when it seems you just cannot seem to get the chill out of the air. You also may be feeling more tired these days in response to the cold, lower activity level, and the lack of natural daylight. The reduction exposure to sunlight effectively suppresses the formation of the sleep-stimulating hormone of melatonin in our bodies that contributes to our daytime sleepiness. Therefore, it is necessary for you to get as much sleep as possible when you go to bed for the night.

Here are some tips to help create a more cozy, serene and warmer bed to help you fall asleep more peacefully for the coming wintery nights:

Insulate you mattress:

The Sleep Council says that insulated mattress surfaces create a better night's sleep, so add that mattress topper to experience a more snuggly sleep to help you stay asleep the entire night.

Duvet:

Down and down alternative-filled duvets are lightweight enough for comfort, but trap body heat to keep you warm. The other alternative is having a few layers of blankets. This allows you to not only remain snug-as-a-bug, but it also enables you to remove layers if you start getting too warm.

Maximize the size of your bedding for additional warmth:

To avoid having your blanket stolen all night long from your partner, purchase a larger sized duvet for your bed than normal. This will keep you snuggled in and prevent loss of sleep over a tug-of-war with the smaller duvet.

Flannel Sheets:

Invest in a set of flannel sheets. They are breathable and they stay warm.

Hot Water Bottle:

Hot water bottles are not merely a remnant of times gone by, they are a great way of keeping extremities such as your feet and hands warm without having to use a heater or wait for bed covers to warm up with body heat. Usually when our hands and feet are warm, our bodies feel completely cozy, so by concentration to these points we are miles ahead!

Be diligent this winter about establishing an alternate means of staying comfortable in bed while maintaining a colder ambient temperature in your bedrooms. This will allow you to have a better quality of sleep while saving major funds on heating expenses.

Tips For Getting Kids To Sleep On Christmas Eve

Fri, 21 Dec 2012 00:49:43 GMT

Christmas day is only a few days away, are you ready? Once the presents are bought and wrapped, one thing that is always challenging is getting the kids to settle down to fall asleep. Every year the anticipation for Santa Claus seems to hinder sleep. Here are some tips to help make bedtime less challenging on Christmas Eve:

Keep them active throughout the day:

There is nothing like a lot of fresh air and activity to make little one's sleepy. Keeping your children busy throughout the day will help make them sleepier in the evening and transition into bedtime less challenging.

Encourage a bath before bedtime:

Bedtime baths are wonderful for helping children feel sleepy when going to bed. Baths drop the body temperature, naturally making them feel sleepy.

Glass of warm milk before bed:

Milk contains the amino acid tryptophan, also found in turkey. This produces a sleep feeling, and the warmth of the milk is very soothing.

Keep sugar intake to a minimum throughout the day:

Avoid as much sugar as possible throughout the day, but especially at bedtime. An intake of sugar will cause boundless energy, thus preventing them from falling asleep.

Stick to your normal bedtime routine:

Although kids are very excited about the Christmas morning, it is important that you stick to the regular bedtime schedule. Keeping kids up later than normal will cause them to be overtired, which will actually have the reverse effect.

Send them to bed early:

Kids are excited and will naturally try to fight sleep. Try putting them to bed a half hour earlier. This will help them to not miss out on too much sleep due to excitement.

Decide on a time for opening presents:

If you have a set time with your kids on when it is acceptable to get up to open presents, this should help avoid some of the early wake-ups from occurring. For younger children this could be a little more challenging. There are some great clocks that allow parents to set a wake-up and bedtime light on the clock. Red would mean it is sleep time and green means it is okay to wake up.

Make sure their surrounding is as normal as possible:

If you are going out of town for Christmas, try to duplicate their surroundings from home as much a possible. You can do this by bringing their favorite stuffed animal(s), blanket, pillow, book, etc.

Turn off TV's, computers, and mobile phones:

Tell them that after a certain time all electronics will need to be shut off. The light from those gadgets actually stops the production of Melatonin, the hormone that tells your body when it is time to go to bed.

If all else fails...

Remind them that Santa cannot come unless they are asleep:

Sometimes kids are just way too excited for anything to really help calm them down. They will definitely want Santa to come and bring them their presents, so they will fall asleep will eventually...it just may take a while.

9 Tips To Getting A Good Night's Sleep Naturally

Sat, 15 Dec 2012 20:11:31 GMT

I bet you did not know you could use your five senses to turn your bedroom into a soothing, comfortable environment for sounder sleep. This is surprising observation from sleep scientists, according to the National Sleep Foundation (NSF).

If you sleep well, there are some significant benefits such as; you are more likely to be slimmer, healthier and less stressed than poor sleepers. You are also likely to have longevity and have lower levels of an inflammatory marker linked to heart disease, stroke, diabetes and arthritis called C-reactive protein. Another benefit to sleeping well is it also reduces blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as well as, helps to ward off depression and even reduces the risk for car crashes.

If you are like most, you are probably not getting enough sleep to gain its health rewards. According to a survey by Consumer Reports, of 26,451 respondents over half of the them had trouble staying asleep, and one in three woke three or more times per night to worry about the stresses of life such as work, health problems and money. To help take advantage of these sleep benefits, here are some natural ways to utilize your five senses in order to sleep well.

Make Your Bed For A Better Night's Sleep

This simple morning chore can make a surprising difference in the quality of your sleep. A neatly made bed is more inviting for sleep and allows you to sleep without having to fight with twisted covers or sleeping on a fitted sheet that needs to be adjusted.

Switch To A Memory Foam Bed

An overwhelming amount of respondents to the Consumer Reports survey said they got a much better night sleep on a memory foam mattress as opposed to a traditional innerspring mattress. It is time to replace your sleep surface if you are waking tired or achy or if your current mattress is saggy or lumpy or is 5 to 7 years old.

Pick A Perfect Pillow

If your current pillow is two or more years old, it is time to replace it. Old pillows cannot give you the support to prevent head and body aches, as well as shoulder and arm numbness. The perfect pillow is firm enough to keep your head and neck in alignment with your spine, as they are when you are standing.

Reset Your Body Clock

If you are night owl, then chances are you are not getting enough sleep. To reset your body clock, start setting your alarm clock to 6 a.m. and force yourself to get up and go out in the sunlight, or at least sit by a sunny window. This tactic should help your body suppress production of the sleep hormone melatonin during the day and release it earlier in the evening so it will be easier to fall asleep sooner rather than later and transform yourself into an early bird.

The Consumer Report survey had also found that those with a consistent bedtime and wake time, even on the weekends, slept the best. Also, it is not recommended to sleep late on the weekends since it does create a form of jet lag and contributes to fatigue during the week.

Scent Your Pillow With Lavender

Apply just a few drops of this fragrance on a handkerchief and tuck it into your pillowcase. Lavender is credited with being a natural remedy for anxiety, insomnia, depression and fatigue. Inhaling the scent provides a calming, soothing and sedative effect.

Take A Relaxing Bath

Soaking in a warm bath will relax tired muscles and lower the body temperature, this creates a natural signal to your brain and body that it is time to sleep. Also, add a few drops of lavender oil to work its magic in the tub as well!

Exercise Later In The Day

According to research, exercising in the early evening between 5 to 7 pm will help make you tired and contribute to a sound sleep. It will also help you to relax and unwind. However, be sure to avoid exercise two to three hours before bedtime, since this will have the opposite effect on you.

Dine By Candlelight

Take advantage of your body's natural tendency to prepare for sleep when daylight begins to decline. By dimming the lights, turning off the computer and the television it will help to stimulate you when you need to calm down.

Eat A Banana

Some call the banana a sleeping pill in a peal because it is loaded with acid tryptophan that is needed for the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that has a tranquilizing effect. Other foods that set this process in motion are dairy products, peanut butter, tofu, and turkey.

Tips To Help Prevent You From Falling Asleep While Driving

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 00:18:09 GMT

When traveling in a car, whether for business or recreation, it can get rather monotonous for both the driver and the passenger. Driving and being tired is a very dangerous combination. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), around 100,000 car accidents each are due to people falling asleep at the wheel each year. These car accidents have resulted in 1,500 deaths and over 70,000 injuries annually, not to mention the significant amounts of property damage each year. These are accidents and deaths that are preventable, and here are some tips to help sleepy drivers stay alert:

If at any point you are feeling tired or fatigued, do not hesitate to pull over to refresh or even take a nap if necessary. A rush of caffeine is not always the answer to helping you stay awake while driving. Nothing can be of more help than natural rest to help your re-energize.

If you have had a hectic or long day, do not immediately get in the car to drive a long distance since you may be lacking in awareness and focus. Before making that long drive home, be sure to give yourself that mental break by going for a quick walk to get some fresh air and exercise.

When planning a long distance car journey, make sure you plan an overnight stop either at a hotel or a bed and breakfast. When you map out your directions calculate where you should be by mid-afternoon and make reservations ahead of time. This will help your trip be more enjoyable and allow you start the morning off with high energy.

Do not plan to travels to start or finish around your usual bedtime since this will disrupt your sleeping pattern and your circadian rhythm.

Do not plan a heavy meal before taking a handling an automobile, heavy foods containing a high fat content are know to make people sluggish, even when they have had enough sleep. While you are traveling, keep yourself hydrated with a lot of water and snack on fruit or even a little chocolate to keep that energy level up.

Bring a passenger along for the ride. Besides, the more the merrier. Having a traveling companion with you will help you stay alert and then you even have someone to share the chore of driving with when you start to feel tired.

Ways For Shift Workers To Get The Sleep They Need

Sat, 01 Dec 2012 17:34:04 GMT

For people who work outside of the regular daytime hours, it can be a real balancing act. Not only are they trying to maintain some type of continuity with marriage, children and friendship, they are also fighting an irregular sleep pattern. As a whole, we are becoming a 24-hour society, since there is an increasing amount of people who work through the night providing late night services to people around the world. Shift workers have it especially hard when it comes to sleep. They are fighting their natural circadian rhythm, which can play havoc on their system.

Shift work is often associated with people who are in the service industry, such as those who work in the medical field, firefighters, police and truck drivers to name a few. However, shift work is now extending out in to other the fields as well. Because of the current job market people are being forced to work the less popular hours in order to get the best job positions or remain employed. Sleep issues that arise from shift work is often one of the biggest battles they face. Since their internal body clock is completely out-of-sync with their working schedule, they typically have trouble sleeping when they can sleep and then feel unrested and tired while awake. It is a battle they face on a daily basis.

The number of hours people work has a huge impact on how tired they will feel. Those who work very long shifts are more tiring, however if someone works less hours on a night shift they will actually be more tired than someone who works longer hours during the day. This is because they are fighting their natural body clock. Often lack of sleep is the most often bi-product of shift work and night workers often have some of the most important jobs in our society. Talking to other shift workers for tips and advice on how they deal with the daily struggle to maintain consistent quality sleep may help to improve fatigue. Seeking medical support may be an alternate option.

Here are some ways to improve a sleeping environment and make it more favorable for sleep.

Keep your bed clean and clear
Make sure it is quiet
Keep it dark
Have it a bit cooler
Stay off the computer and no watching TV prior to going to bed

Lastly, make sure your sleeping surface is one that will allow you to get comfortable. Sleeping on a lumpy 20-year-old mattress is not conducive to getting a restful sleep. Mattress experts often say that ultra-firm mattresses are good for consumers, but research on patients with back pain has found this was not true and a more supple, comforting mattress may lead to better sleep. The Nature's Sleep Memory Foam Mattress conforms to your body, which allows for a deeper sleep that's free from aches and pains.

Maintaing A Healthy Sleep And Exercise Routine Even While Busy

Sun, 25 Nov 2012 21:45:31 GMT

With how busy life can be, especially with the holiday season now in full swing, it is important to still maintain a healthy lifestyle. It is essential to find the right balance to still fit in the amount of exercise you need with the correct amount of sleep. You will notice the benefits daily when you are still keeping up with exercise and sleep even during the busy times. Here are a few tips that will help you achieve some balance in your sleep and exercise:

How Much Sleep Do You Need?

Get to know how much sleep your body requires. Although some adults may need eight or more hours of sleep to function properly, not all do. People vary in the amount sleep they require, so it is important to determine the amount of sleep you need in order to function at your fullest potential. Once you have established the amount of sleep you need, it will then be easier to create a daily schedule that allows for the sleep you need. You will then want to stick with the same sleep time and wake up time everyday to set your body clock. This will also help you to fall asleep faster and wake up in the morning feeling more refreshed.

Know Your Body With Exercise

It is vital to know how much exercise your body can take. Beginning with on a lower weight and then building up the level of weights will help your body train and build up naturally. You also want to include a cardio portion with your exercise and build up slowly on that as well. When you push yourself too hard and too quickly your body will take much longer to heal, require more sleep, and will need more time between workouts.

Prepare a Schedule

Planning out your daily schedule ensures you fit in all of your activities, including work, house chores, exercise and even the time you need to sleep. This will help you visualize and prepare for your day. Although your commitments will vary from week to week, it is important to still maintain a workout schedule and keep your same bedtime and wake up time. This will help you achieve the full benefits of both a regular workout routine and a good sleep pattern.

Sleep Directly Affects Athletic Performance

Thu, 22 Nov 2012 14:12:35 GMT

It seems the more research that is done on sleep the more it reveals how important sleep is to maintain healthiness, even in the world of professional athletes. Most athletes would agree that getting enough sleep is important for optimal sports performance, but until recently this was just a theory without much evidence to back it up. But now researchers are discovering that sleep deprivation can have a direct impact on athletic performance.

At SLEEP2012, Researchers analyzed the sleep habits of 55 NFL draftees and 40 MLB players over three years. Researchers found that athletes in both leagues who reported experiencing high levels of daytime sleepiness were more likely to have shorter careers. This meant they were less likely to stay with the teams that originally drafted them than players who were better rested, and reported feeling less tired during the day.

For purposes of this study, NFL athletes were asked to fill out a questionnaire that would allow researchers to evaluate the athletes' levels of daytime tiredness. They found that athletes who scored higher for excessive daytime tiredness, meaning those who were more tired during the day, were less likely to stay with the original team that drafted them than players who scored at lower levels for excessive daytime tiredness. Among players who did not get an adequate amount of nighttime sleep and report excessive daytime tiredness, 38 percent stayed with their drafting team, compared to 56 percent of better-rested players.

To study baseball players, researchers presented these athletes with the same questionnaire on sleep and daytime tiredness. Researchers discovered that those players who reported the highest levels of daytime sleepiness had significantly higher dropout rates from the league. Ballplayers who reported feeling more tired during the day had dropout rates in the range of 57-86 percent, compared to average MLB drop out rates, which are in the range of 30-35 percent.

Deep sleep is essential for muscle recovery, bone mineralization, bouncing back from injuries, among other things, which is one of the reasons why athletes without adequate sleep find themselves on the trading line more often. Sleep has a direct impact on performance.

This is important information for team organizations, players, and coaches since encouraging sleep among professional athletes may be one way to enhance and even prolong players' career-long levels of performance.

In order for athletes and the general public to have a restful nights sleep, it is also essential to have the right mattress. A Nature's Sleep Memory Foam Mattress allows you to achieve deeper sleep that is free from aches and pains.

Tips To Help You Sleep During Holiday Travel

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 04:11:23 GMT

Since the holidays are quickly approaching, many people start making travel arrangements to spend the holidays with family in other states and countries. A lot of people find it difficult to impossible to find a way to rest while in-flight. Especially for those traveling abroad, getting some sleep can help the travel time pass much more quickly. Here are some tips to help you be able to relax and get some sleep while flying:

Stay Relaxed: If flying gets you rather nervous or anxious, you need to try to stay calm. You can do this by replacing the negative thoughts with positive thoughts. Another way is by occupying your mind with something else. Bring at least one or two good books with you. If you are not a book reader some magazines are a great option as well.

Avoid Caffeine: Avoid all caffeine before and during your flight. Caffeine will not only prevent you from relaxing, but if you are on edge with traveling it can make you more anxious.

Earplugs: Investing in a pair of earplugs is a great way to block out the noises of the plane and of those around you. If noise prevents you from drifting off to sleep, these should help you be able to relax.

Pillow: Grab a pillow for your flight, since it will allow you to get more comfortable and help ease you into sleep.

Eye Mask: Blocking out the light will help facilitate sleep. You will want to invest in one of these prior to the flight to ensure you have one of good quality.

Blanket: Have a blanket with you so that a shift in temperature will not prevent you from sleeping.

Fasten Seatbelt Over Blanket: During flight, the stewardesses are always checking to make sure people remain buckled in. To ensure you are not disturbed during sleep, fasten your seatbelt over your blanket so they can clearly see you are buckled in.

Dress Comfortably: Wearing clothes that are too tight or restrictive can make for a very uncomfortable flight. You will want to make sure you have on loose-fitting cloths that are a comfortable material. Having on the wrong type of clothing will prevent you from being able to relax.

Book a Window Seat: If you are not comfortable sitting by the window, you can always close the shade. But having a seat next a window will give you a place to rest your head. Falling asleep with your head bouncing around or landing on the passenger next to you will prevent you from resting.

Leg Room: Any type of carry-ons you have should be able to fit in the compartment above you so you can take advantage of all your legroom. Any necessities you need can be put in the pocket of the seat in front of you.

Tips To Stop The Snoring

Wed, 07 Nov 2012 17:55:01 GMT

Are you a snorer? If you snore while you sleep, it not only causes a disruption in your sleep but may also affect your partners. Snoring is typically a symptom of an underlying health problem. If you snore throughout the night it can leave you feeling tired and irritable. There are some remedies that can be purchased over-the-counter that claim to prevent snoring, however there is no evidence of its effectiveness. The best way to help prevent snoring is with a change in lifestyle. Finding a way to prevent snoring will give you and your partner a healthy and restful night's sleep.

Sleeping Position

The position you sleep in has a direct impact on whether you snore. Those who sleep on their back are usually the snorers, since the muscles in the back of your throat and tongue become relaxed, your tongue can fall back partially blocking the airway that will, in turn, cause the vibration that is characteristic of snoring. Sleeping on your side can help reduce snoring. This will clear the airway and help you breath properly while sleeping. Also, elevating your head slightly will help to clear your airway allowing for easy breathing. However, if you do sleep on your side with your head elevated and snoring persists, you may need to look at other lifestyle changes in order to stop the snoring.

Inhale Steam

Nasal congestion due to a cold or allergies can increase your chance of snoring while you are sleeping since it can restrict breathing. Inhaling stream through your nose right before bed can clear out nasal passages and allow for easier breathing throughout the night.

Lose Weight

Having additional weight can cause excess neck tissue that can increase a chance of a snoring problem. Lying on your back with additional weight causes the excess weight to press against your lungs reducing the quality of your sleep. Being overweight will make you more susceptible to snoring, which will decrease the quality of sleep and leave you feeling tired.

Avoid Alcohol

Alcohol may help you fall asleep more quickly, but it does not mean you get a better night's sleep. Alcohol can increase snoring because it tends to suppress your breathing and enhances the relaxation of the muscles in the back of your throat that can cause you to snore.

Change Your Pillows

Allergens in your bedroom and in your pillow may contribute to snoring. When did you last dust the overhead ceiling fan? Replace your pillows? Purchasing a Nature's Sleep Pillow that is anti-microbal, anti-dust mite, anti-bacterial and allergen resistant may be the solution to your snoring issue.

Following these steps can help stop you from snoring and achieve a better night's sleep. Getting a good night's sleep will help you concentrate throughout the day and stay alert and focused. It can also be very positive for your disposition! Sleeping all night long will leave you feeling refreshed and restored.

If snoring persists, see a doctor to rule out other health issues that may be contributing to snoring.

Can Too Much Sleep Be Bad For Your Health?

Fri, 02 Nov 2012 02:38:00 GMT

Can getting too much sleep be a danger to your health? We hear a lot about the impact on your health if you do not get enough sleep, but rarely do we ever hear anything about getting more than enough sleep. It seems in today's day and age people often struggle with not having enough time to get things done. Often, in our busy lives we struggle to get the amount of sleep we each require, and in some cases it even takes low priority. So, is there really such a thing as too much of a good thing when it comes to sleep?

Actually the answer is yes, if you sleep too much at night it may cause health problems. Oversleeping has been linked to such health issues, such as depression, diabetes and obesity. Your lifestyle, age, and the activities you are involved in on a daily basis dictate the amount of sleep you should get each night. For instance, if you lead an active lifestyle, your body may require more hours of sleep at night in order to recover.

People who suffer from extreme sleepiness throughout the day may be suffering from a sleeping disorder called hypersomnia. This disorder may cause a person to sleep unusually long periods of time, well above the recommended amount. Other symptoms that hypersomnia suffers may have are: anxiety, low energy and memory problems. It stands to reason that oversleeping must cause some side effects.

Oversleeping and diabetes were linked in a study that was done on 9000 Americans. It was found that people who slept for more than nine hours a night had a 50% greater chance of diabetes than people who slept for seven hours. This was actually the same finding for people who slept less than five hours per night. Also, people who overslept were 21% more likely to be obese over a six-year period, than people who slept for the recommended amount of time.

It is important to your health that you receive the recommended amount of sleep you need to stay healthy and alert throughout the day. Often sleeping too long can make you feel tired and sluggish upon waking, leaving you with little ambition to get things done during the day. If you struggle to wake up in the morning, try setting an alarm and place it far enough away from the bed so you will have to get up to shut it off. Also, try to set a morning routine that will give you purpose to get up in the morning and stay awake.

Do you question if you are getting enough sleep? Check out this article to see how to test if you are getting a sufficient amount of sleep.

What Does Your Sleep Position Say About You?

Sun, 28 Oct 2012 14:24:12 GMT

Did you know the position in which you sleep could reveal your personality? According to a body language expert, your sleep position may be more insightful than your think. Your sleep position reveals traits about your personality, such as bossiness, stubbornness, being self-critical, and whether people feel they are in control of their life.

A study of 1,000 sleepers, conducted by Premier Inns found that there are basically 4 types of sleepers. The 4 types of sleepers are the fetal position, the log sleeper, the yearner position and the free-faller position. Below is a description of each position and the personality each represents:

The Fetal Position - The most popular of sleep positions is one. If you curl up on your side into somewhat of a ball, then you are in the majority. Over half of the participants in the study got into this position as soon as they got into bed.

The typical behavior pattern of a person sleeping in this pattern is someone who is seeking comfort and is a constant worrier. During their waking hours they are very meticulous, most likely overthinking their tasks and daily lives in general.

The Log Position - Nearly 30 percent of the participants in the study slept like a "log", which is a vertical position having arms at the sides. The personality of a person who favors this sleep position tends to be someone who is rigid in his or her daily lives. They are usually stubborn and "set in their ways." To other people they sometimes seem bossy and aloof.

A person who typically sleeps in this person often finds him or herself stiffer and in more pain than before they went to bed. Since their muscles are more taut while they are sleeping their muscles may not be getting the proper rest. They are typically trying to find time during their waking hours on how to relax.

The Yearner - This is the position that nearly 25 percent of the participants preferred. If you sleep on your side with your arms outstretched in front of you then you are sleeping in the yearner position. The yearners are those who wake up in the morning with enthusiasm to start their day and chase their dreams.

The study found that although this group of sleepers went after their dreams, they did not have any real focus and tended to be chronic time wasters. Also, some yearners are not chasing their dreams, but have the feeling they are being chased.

The Free-fall Position - If you sleep face down on your stomach, with arms and legs outstretched in a free-fall position, it may mean that you are seeking control of time and space in a way that you do not feel you have in your waking hours. This position had the least amount of participants at only 17 percent. These sleepers tend to get the least amount of rest during their nighttime sleep.

A couple of other positions that were mentioned were those who sleep on their back in a starfish position with arms and legs outstretched may be more open, and make better friends than the logs. Also the the soldier sleeper, who is also a back sleeper tends to be more quiet and reserved, and sets high standards for himself and others.

Since the soldier and the starfish both sleep on their backs, they tend to snore and have other breathing issues throughout the night.

Other findings based on this study were that people who sleep on the left side of the mattress have a brighter outlook on life. They tend to be able to handle daily stresses of life and work better than those who sleep on the right side.

You cannot base these findings on all sleepers who sleep in these positions since not all sleepers are alike. All of the sleepers did tend to change positions throughout the night. This is a fun study to see if your sleep position is in alignment with the findings!

Cleaning Your Memory Foam Mattress

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 23:37:11 GMT

Memory foam mattresses are gaining more and more popularity in the market as the ideal type to buy when purchasing a new mattress. It's a no brainer due to numerous acclaims about the amazing level of comfort and support they provide for a great nights sleep. These mattresses contour to your body so that your weight is evenly distributed to relieve pressure points and reduce pain while sleeping.

Memory foam is made with a special type of material using advanced Visco technology memory foam. Special care should be used when cleaning a memory foam mattress to keep it in tiptop shape. Below are some tips to cleaning your memory foam mattress.

Vacuuming Your Memory Foam

One of the easiest and simplest ways to maintain cleanliness for your memory foam is with regular vacuuming. Using a handheld vacuum is your best option for greatest amount of control.

You can remove and wash the Antimicrobial Cotton Blend Cover that fits over the Nature's Sleep memory foam prior to vacuuming. Be sure to vacuum all surfaces of your memory foam including the sides.

Removing Stains From Your Memory Foam

If a stain does get on your memory foam, do not use commercial products with harsh chemicals in them such as bleach or ammonia. Not only are these chemicals too harsh, but they will also ruin the material and the interior of the memory foam.

A preferred way to clean your memory foam is by using a mild detergent such as dishwashing liquid that is mixed with water until it is in a bubble form. Next, with a clean sponge, dip it into the bubbles and clean with a circular motion from the outermost portion of the stain towards the interior of it. Be sure to only use the bubbles to remove the stain without dipping the sponge into the solution.

If you do not have a mild detergent, you can also use a water and vinegar mixture. Put the mixture into a spray bottle and lightly spray the mattress, scrubbing the stained part quickly with an absorbent clean cloth. The vinegar will help dilute the stain and will also soak up any unpleasant odor.

Drying Your Memory Foam Mattress

If any type of liquid is spilled on your memory foam, it needs to go out in the sun immediately in order to dry out quickly. When you place the mattress in the sun all day long, make sure you turn it periodically so that it dries evenly on all sides.

If there is no sun to dry your memory foam mattress, then sprinkle baking soda onto the wet spot. The baking soda will absorb the dampness. After about a half hour to an hour of having the baking soda on it, a clump will form as it absorbs the baking soda. Once the baking soda is done absorbing the dampness the only thing that needs to be done is vacuuming up the baking soda. The baking soda will also absorb any unpleasant odors.

If the mattress is still a little damp, simply use a blow dryer to complete the drying process. Do not use the blow dryer on the hottest setting since it could cause damage to the mattress. Only use it on the cold or warm setting until the mattress is completely dry.

The Various Types Of Dreams

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 03:57:36 GMT

Many people often question what their dreams mean and even why they exist. Unfortunately research in this area is not an exact science, but it does seem that the largest consensus agrees that dreams come from the subconscious, and are often the reflection of our own feelings. However, if you want an exact interpretation of your dreams then that could be a little more difficult to pin down. While we generally tend to dream at night during REM (rapid-eye movement) sleep, we do have several different types of dreams and experience them in different ways. Below are a few examples of the different types of dreams we can have:

Lucid Dream:

Lucid dreaming is when the dreamer is consciously aware of the fact that they are dreaming. Some people claim to be able to enter lucid sleep through meditation and visualization. This is actually a technique that has been used by Tibetan Buddhists for over 1,000 years called Wake Induced Lucid Dreams. For most though, lucidity usually begins in the middle of dreams when the dreamer realizes that the experiences that are occurring are not of physical reality, but rather the creation of a dream. However, such a sudden realization will then likely cause the dreamer to wake up. Others have been able to cultivate the skill of remaining in a lucid dream and becoming an active participant by making decisions in their dreams and influence the dream's outcome without awakening.

Recurring Dream:

Recurring dreams are when you have the same dream many times. It can be several times a month, weekly, or nightly. Usually they are the manifestation of something the dreamer is currently experiencing. Usually once the conflict is resolved the dream will end. A common example of a recurring dream is of one falling, which supposedly indicates feelings of stress and anxiety.

Nightmare:

A nightmare is a disturbing dream that causes you to wake up feeling anxious and frightened. Nightmares may be a response to real life trauma and situations. A nightmare will often cause the dreamer to wake up in a distressed state, leaving them unable to sleep for a considerable period of time afterwards.

Daydream:

Scientific studies have found that the average person daydreams for at least 70 - 120 minutes a day. During this time, you are awake. It is essentially just using our imagination, but it becomes very vivid and real for a short period of time.

In daydreams, the right (creative) brain is dominant and you lose awareness of reality. Deeper worries or concerns may surface, usually by acting themselves out in the daydream. This only serves to reinforce negativity - so next time you are fantasizing about bad situations, turn it around and consciously create a positive outcome.

Also, contrary to popular belief that daydreaming is a sign of laziness or being inattentive, it can also be a sign of creativity since it often leads to new thoughts and ideas.

False Awakening:

Have you ever thought you have woken up and gone about your daily morning routine: getting up, brushing your teeth, eating breakfast and going to work, only to wake up "again" and realize that what just happened was just a dream? That sensation is referred to as a false awakening.

These are just a few examples of the types of dreams we may experience. While most dreams will not have any effect on your day, there are ones such as recurring dreams or nightmares, which may have more of an impact on you. If, however, you find yourself experiencing recurring nightmares on a regular basis you may want to consult with your doctor to ensure there is not any underlying trauma or anxiety.

You may may want to ensure you are getting the best night's sleep possible, a memory foam mattress is designed to help relax your body into a deep relaxed slumber.

What Makes Memory Foam Have Memory?

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 15:23:12 GMT

In order for foam to have memory, it all begins with synthetic polyurethane foam material and certain types of chemicals, which add an increase in weight or density to the foam. The combination of these chemicals along with the synthetic polyurethane foam material creates a non-toxic, visco-elastic foam material. visVisco-elastic and memory foam are interchangeable, or you may even see it referred to as "viscoelastic memory foam". Although this is how memory foam is made, there are many other factors that go into what you receive as the final product. In order to understand the differences in the final product, you have to understand how to grade the foam.

1. Weight (Density in pounds per square foot):

The weight of the foam is determined by the amount of chemicals that was used in combination with the synthetic polyurethane foam material to create the visco-elastic foam. It is directly proportional to the amount of chemicals, so the more chemicals the higher the density and vice versa. However, density does not determine the hardness of the memory foam. Most memory foam mattresses are between 4 - 5 pounds density, however some use as low as 2 - 3 pounds densities.

2. ILD Rating (Indentation Load Deflection):

The ILD Rating is what you will need to look at to see the hardness of the memory foam. For instance, a 25% ILD rating is the number of pounds required to achieve a 25% compression of a 4" thick foam using a 50 square inch indentation. The ILD directly correlates with the firmness of the foam since the higher the ILD, the firmer the foam. The ILD may also be referred to as; IFD (Indentation Force Deflection) since they are synonymous. The ILD or IFD refers to how hard or soft the top layer of the memory foam mattress or bed topper is. You want to avoid getting an ILD that is too hard or too soft since, if there is no support underneath, this can flair up lower back problems especially if you are already susceptible to them. In order to get the best memory foam mattresses, you will want to confirm there is a layered effect that will properly disburse pressure points. The layers should gradually get a little firmer below the top layer so that the final layer on the bottom is the support base and is the firmest of the layers.

3. Resilience:

This is the measurement of the foam's "springiness" and is determined by dropping a dropping a steel ball from a height of 36" and measuring the percent rebound. The higher the resiliency, the more durable the foam will be with compression forces. This is where it may get a little tricky since with viscoelastic memory foam, less resilience indicates a better force dampening. To compensate for this, and to make sure you are getting a high quality memory foam mattress, you will want to see that you get one that has the higher resilient layer(s) toward the bottom combined with memory foam on the top. This way you will get the pressure point reduction while still retaining the extra support below.

4. Tensile:

This means the extent to which the memory foam was stretched. This value actually has very little bearing on memory foam mattresses since they are not usually stretched.

Now that you know what makes memory foam have memory, you can check out Nature's Sleep Foam Mattresses. Also, do not forget to enter to win a free mattress via Facebook!

Nature's Sleep Pillow Set Sweepstakes

Thu, 04 Oct 2012 18:39:13 GMT

There are countless reasons why we don't sleep well at night, from bodily aches and pains to daily stress. Your body's natural energy can help you heal – and now you can harness it while you sleep.

Nature's Sleep is introducing the BioCrystal® technology for Mattresses, an innovative new approach to revitalizing the body and mind. BioCrystal® mattresses allow and combine the power of crystals to enhance the natural flow of positive energy during ones sleep, so you sleep soundly through the night and wake feeling your best.

You can win a Sapphire Gel Mattress on Facebook right now! The contest is open to US only and ends Oct. 31, 2012 11:59 pm EST.

If you would like to win a set of pillows of your choice, please enter the giveaway here.

Sleep On It And Make Sure You Purchase The Right Mattress

Mon, 01 Oct 2012 17:53:42 GMT

Did you know, according to the National Institutes of Health, there are 70 million Americans who suffer from sleep problems? Do you suffer from insomnia? It may be helpful for you to know that it may be your mattress. If you have purchased your mattress more than 5 years ago and have ruled out depression, stress, and consuming caffeine or eating close to bedtime, it may be time for a new mattress!

Apparently taking a "rest test" in the stores helped consumers feel confident about their mattress purchases. In a survey given to 5900 participants, of those who bought a brand new mattress within the past five years, 72 percent who spent at least 10 minutes lying on the mattress in the store were very or completely satisfied once they bought it. When compared to those who spent little or not time trying out the bed, 62 percent said they were as happy. Overall about three quarters of the people who were surveyed reported that their sleep problems had improved since getting a new mattress.

Also in this survey, which was done by Consumer Reports, they found about three quarters of the people who were surveyed reported that their sleep problems had improved since getting a new mattress. Some other reported findings are that people who ordered a foam mattress (memory or latex) were far more pleased with their choice than those who bought an innerspring type. Other interesting survey results included the fact that cost did not seem to factor into how satisfied people were with their mattress purchase. People were satisfied with their purchase regardless of how much the mattress cost. There were 64% who were satisfied who spent less than $2,000, 72% were satisfied and spent between $2,000 and $4,000 or 75 percent who were completely satisfied and spent more than $4,000.

If your mattress is at least eight years old and you do not sleep as well as you used to, consider purchasing a new one. First, rule out other causes of insomnia, including depression, stress, and consuming caffeine or eating close to bedtime. Participants of the survey explained that visiting stores to browse and compare prices and getting advice from friends and family had helped influence their decision. And once you start shopping, try lying down on the job, this should really ensure you make the right purchasing decision.

Currently on Nature's Sleep Facebook page you can enter their sweepstakes to win The Sapphire, Gel-Infused, Memory Foam Mattress. This mattress is valued up to $3,500 and is the ultimate in cool pressure-free sleeping comfort.

Writing An Effective Sleep Diary

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 06:02:31 GMT

Do you find yourself having trouble falling asleep often? One of the best ways to gauge what may be causing sleep disturbances is by keeping a sleep diary. This can help you identify any patterns or abnormalities in your sleep. You will also be able to determine if it is a lifestyle or diet aspect that is contributing to your sleep issues. If you can identify a pattern, then you may be on the road to a more restful night's sleep.

However, before you start your sleep diary, there are some things you will need to know first. Below are some helpful guidelines for writing an effective sleep diary:

Time: This is a vital aspect to your sleep journal. This will document the time you actually slept, as well as the times you woke up throughout the night. This should also consist of the length of time it took you to fall asleep and how long you napped throughout day, if you did. Capturing this information will help determine if you are getting enough sleep, and more importantly see if you are consistently going to bed at the same time every night. This may dictate whether or not a more consistent bedtime is warranted, and perhaps a change in lifestyle.

Diet: Tracking your diet is a very important facet of the sleep diary. Being able to track when and what you last ate before you went to will point out if you are eating foods that are preventing you from getting the quality of sleep you need. You should also include any medication you are taking and the times of which they are being taken. Based on your sleep diary a medical consultation may be warranted to discuss alternate medications, which will not affect your sleep.

How Refreshed You Feel: In the morning do you awaken feeling exhilarated and refreshed, like you never fell asleep, or somewhere in the middle? You will want to chart this on a scale from 0 - 10, 0 feeling the least rested and 10 feeling refreshed. You will want to watch this pattern to see if your numbers stay consistent or if you can see a gradual increase towards 10. To help achieve a better nights rest, you will want to check out our Ten Tips To Getting A Great Night's Rest. If you do not start to see improvement, seeking professional help would be advised. From there they would want to perform a sleep study to narrow down the cause of your sleepless nights.

Why Should You Buy A Memory Foam Mattress?

Sun, 16 Sep 2012 04:19:26 GMT

Why should you buy a memory foam mattress?

There are many great advantages to owning a memory foam mattress is the fact that you can sleep in any position and achieve an amazing amount of comfort. Whether you sleep on your back, side or stomach a memory foam mattress will mold to your body evenly

Since the memory foam conforms to your body, you are able to receive support throughout your body. Reducing pressure points and keep the spine in a neutral position gives your body the ultimate comfort in sleeping.

There is no need to flip a memory foam mattress. Since there are no inner springs that will start to sag, it is no longer necessary to nearly break your back trying to flip your mattress.

You get a better night's sleep on a memory foam mattress. Memory foam mattresses are often recommended by doctors and specialists since doctors getting a more sound sleep can help linked to disorders bad sleep, such as narcolepsy, obesity and irritableness.

Do you suffer from allergies or asthma? The memory foam mattress is allergen free and hypoallergenic since it is made of 100% natural material.

Also, there is no need to worry about dust mites anymore. The memory foam mattress is resistant to them, making it impossible for them to inhabit your bed.

One advantage that may not be obvious is, since it contours to your body, it is ideal for sex. *blush*

It is like lying down on a new mattress every time. Since it is sensitive to heat and becomes softer as a person lies upon it. But once the person leaves the bed, it cools and begins to bounce back to its original shape.

The list of advantages above should be telling of the benefits you get from sleeping on a memory foam mattress. The only thing you have to do is see it to believe it or better yet, lie down in one to experience the difference. Better yet, check out Nature's Sleep wide variety of memory foam mattresses.

Ten Tips to Getting A Great Night's Sleep

Thu, 13 Sep 2012 04:51:43 GMT

Do you have nights when no matter how tired you feel you still cannot go to sleep? As long as this just occurs occasionally, then you should just need to try out a few simple tricks to help you fall asleep. Below are ten ideas to help you get a great night sleep:

Block Out Excessive Light and Noise: Having that extra bit of noise or light coming through can affect your ability to fall asleep. For light, you will want to make sure you have darkening shades or curtains to block out the light that may be creeping in. Also, have all electronic equipment that can emit light shut off or turned in a way that they will not brighten your room. If any of your electronics makes noises at night, such as a cell phone that notifies you for email or texts, put it in sleep mode through the night or turn it off. If, for whatever reason you are unable to block out light or excess noise then you may want to check out earplugs and an eye mask.

Do Not Nap Too Much: If you do need to nap during the day, do it earlier in the day so it will not affect your nighttime sleep and limit it to one hour.

Read At Bedtime: Invest in a book light if you do not have one and read when you are all tucked into bed. If you have anything on your mind, reading will help put you in a relaxed state and help you not focus on any concerns you may have.

Do Not Go To Bed Hungry: Going to bed when you are hungry can make it difficult to relax. When you are hungry, your thoughts are going to be on the fact that your stomach is growling and you want to feed it.

Invest in a Quality Mattress: No matter how tired you are if you have a mattress that is too firm, soft or pokey it’s going to disrupt your sleep. A Nature’s Sleep Memory Foam Mattress adjusts your size and weight, which will decrease your tossing and turning by 75% than with an innerspring mattress. This will allow you to get superior nights sleep that is free from aches and pains.

Write Down Nagging Thoughts: Have a pad of paper and pen next to your bed, that way if you remember something that needs to be done you can jot it down. Sometimes it’s those nagging thoughts that can prevent you from falling asleep.

Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol is a sleep disrupter, not a sleep aid as discussed in this recent post. Alcohol dehydrates you and has an effect on your sleeping pattern, causing you to be more tired in the morning.

Try Yoga: Learning techniques on how to relax your mind and body can help you fall asleep more quickly.

Have a Relaxing Beverage: Such as Chamomile Tea, which has been shown to reduce anxiety.

Stick to a Schedule: A schedule will help sleep train your body clock to know when it is time to go to sleep and when to wake up. It may take a little time to get used to the routine, but once your body adjusts to it you will appreciate the positive effects.

You may find that one of these tips or a combination of some of these tips is what will benefit your nighttime sleep. If you are not able to sleep on a regular basis, or if of none of these tips have an impact on you then you should visit your doctor to rule out another sleeping disorders.

Top Ways to Get a Better Night Sleep

Fri, 31 Aug 2012 03:13:36 GMT

For some reason, some nights may be more difficult than others to fall asleep. It does not seem to matter how tired you are, getting any shut-eye just does not seem to be in the picture. As long as this occurs occasionally, you are fine. Below are some great ways to guarantee a restful night of sleep.

1. Invest in a quality mattress: Of course, we think this is the most important step in the process of falling asleep. No matter how tired you may be, if your mattress is uncomfortable then you will have great difficulty achieving a restful nights sleep. Since memory foam mattresses adjust to your unique weight and shape, they will allow you a deeper sleep that's free from aches and pains.

2. Stick to a schedule: This is one of the most important pieces of information to share with you to help successfully achieve a goodnight’s sleep. A schedule will train your body to know when it is time to go to sleep and when it is time to wake-up.

3. Read a book: Picking up a good book and reading in bed with a book light will allow you to get your mind off of anything that may plaguing your thoughts.

4. Yoga: Excessive exercise within three hours of going bed will get your adrenaline going and making it difficult to relax. Yoga will have the opposite effect since it helps keep your heart at near-resting state and relaxes the body and mind.

5. Get room-darkening blinds & get rid of excess noise: Trying to fall asleep when there is too much light in the room or noise can make it difficult. Try using earplugs and an eye mask if there is not another way to darken the room or reduce the noise.

6. Drink cherry juice: There are a lot of drinks not recommended at bedtime, however researchers at Northumbria University have proven that cherry juice actually helps control the production of melatonin. This is an important sleep-regulating hormone.

7. Do not take a long nap: Although taking one short nap may give you that quick boost of energy, it is not recommended you take too long of a nap or more than one nap a day. Too much sleep during the day can make it difficult to fall asleep at night, or delay your bedtime. This will then have a snowball effect on the coming days.

8. Jot down worries: Sometimes when you have too much on your mind it tends to plague your thoughts at bedtime, preventing you from falling to sleep. If it something you are worried about forgetting the next day, write it down that way it is off your mind until the morning. If it is a nagging thought in the back of your mind, write it down and do not think about it until the morning.

9. Avoid alcohol: Drinking alcohol to help fall asleep will actually have the opposite effect on you as explained in a previous post. It will cause dehydration, sleep disruption and will leave you dragging in the morning.

10. Turn down the heat: Since your body drops in temperature just a bit during sleep, sleeping in a slightly cooler bedroom can help start the process.

11. Do not go to bed too hungry or full: When your body feels to hungry or full, it can make it difficult to relax. If you are hungry at bedtime, your thoughts will be focused on food. If you are too full, your stomach may be too upset to fall asleep or may wake you up during night.

How Safe is Your Memory Foam?

Mon, 06 Aug 2012 17:40:53 GMT

Are you aware that newly purchased mattresses emit “off gassing”? This term refers to the chemical-based odor that emanates from a newly purchased mattress. An example of this is walking down the cleaning product aisle at a store. Although all the bleach and cleaning supplies are sealed, you can still smell it. That is the “off gassing” also referred to as “out gassing”. In effect, the wrong mattress can potentially harm users every time they get under the covers.

The use of chemicals is not typically associated with mattresses; however, they can be used in the development of memory foam mattresses. Most memory foam mattresses do elicit some form of out gassing due to their materials being chemically treated. However with the memory foam industry quickly evolving, there are more progressive construction methods being used to create safer a composition of memory foam. Thought there are still companies who will cut corners, so the material used in any memory foam mattress should be questioned.

You do want to avoid memory foam mattresses that use chemically treated gel-infused mattresses. According to the Environmental News Network, they suggest getting rid of chemically treated gel-infused mattresses due to the health risks.

Here is one suggestion on how to alleviate some of the out-gassing problems. When you first get your memory foam mattress, allow it to air out. Since setting it up in a bedroom will not really provide a lot of ventilation, however, airing out your mattress will allow the gas and odor to dissipate.

Also, not all odors coming from a new mattress are toxic, new mattresses will smell “new” – just as a new car does.However to alleviate the worries of out-gassing, a natural mattress is void of toxic chemicals.

Nature’s Sleep products are all made exclusively with memory foam that has been independently certified as safe by CertiPUR-US laboratories. What this means is they follow strict guidelines to ensure the environmental safety (both indoors and outdoors) of their products.

Specifically they meet the follow:

Low emissions for better indoor quality
No prohibited phthalates
No ozone depleters (CFCs)
No mercury, lead or heavy metals
No formaldehyde
No PBDE flame retardants

You can still allow yourself the experience of sleeping on the ultra comfortable memory foam mattress without sacrificing your health. Nature’s Sleep has all the benefits of memory foam without any of the other health concerns of associated with memory foam.

The Effects of Alcohol on Sleep

Fri, 03 Aug 2012 21:52:07 GMT

Sleep can be difficult to achieve on occasion for anyone; however, there are some who have difficulty falling asleep every night. For some of these people, they may resort to alcohol, since it can act like a sedative to help them go to sleep. The problem is that having an alcohol induced sleep is actually not beneficial, and if done over a long period of time can cause other health issues.

In fact, drinking alcohol at any time three hours or less before bed can lead to both early waking disruptions in the sleep cycle on the whole. The problem lies in the fact that alcohol will increase your deep sleep cycle, but incrementally decrease your REM cycle. You need both in balanced doses to get a healthy sleep.

One of the most common sleep disorders to occur as a direct result of using alcohol as a sleep aid is sleep apnea, which is destructive to heart health over a long period of time. Since drinking alcohol narrows the air passages it makes it harder to breathe causing you to gasp for the blocked air. As a result, you have disturbed sleep cycle. Since your airway passage is partially obstructed, your heart has to work harder to get the oxygen it needs, which then can result in health problems.

Drinking alcohol even an hour before bed can cause sleep disturbances, as mentioned earlier, with the increased deep sleep and decreased REM sleep that results in a physiological state known as “REM rebound”. What happens is after you fall asleep your body starts adjusting to the alcohol running through your blood stream. Then, by the time you are on your second sleep cycle your body has already metabolized (eliminated) the alcohol that was in your system. At this point, it will then try to get your metabolism back to normal levels. This is where REM rebound occurs. As your body is trying to return to normal levels your body will actually over-compensate and change its course in the opposite direction resulting in sleep disturbance. When rebound and its associated sleep disturbance occur, you will not feel rested the next day; instead you will feel rather foggy.

It is apparent that alcohol has very negative effects on your sleep and on your health. Alcohol may seem to be a good sleep aide, however there are several other alternatives to alcohol that are healthier and more effective in helping you get some shut eye. One great way, which I love, is reading a book in bed with a book light. It calms my mind by putting me in a different place and makes me incredibly sleepy. Also, you should avoid caffeine, dairy products and smoking before bedtime. Lastly, it may even be associated with the mattress you are sleeping on. Switching to a memory foam mattress will actually help improve your body’s blood circulation and alleviate the pressure points associated with a traditional mattress so you get a more restful sleep. However, even if you do have a memory foam mattress you may not be able to fully enjoy it if you are not practicing healthy sleep habits.

Where Do Dreams Come From?

Mon, 30 Jul 2012 05:36:39 GMT

Where do dreams come from? Where dreams come from has always been an area of interest for people. That is why there are a lot of people who like to have their dreams interpreted. The true origin of where dreams come from and what they convey is still rather mysterious.

According to Dictionary.com, Dreams are defined as “a succession of images, thoughts, or emotions passing through the mind during sleep.”

There are several stages of sleep in which dreams occur. But they occur most frequently and are most vivid during the first stage of REM sleep. This period of sleep is the most vital portion of sleep since it is where body and mind are restored and healed.

Do you put much importance on your dreams? If not, you are probably one of the people who rarely recalls dreaming. If you were to get the recommended eight hours of sleep a night, you would go through at least 4 stages of REM sleep which would result in hours of being in the stage where dreams are most frequent. Many people never recall having dreams, or only remember dreams every few days. However, if a person is awakened during REM sleep, they more often than not do recall their dreams.

Through scientific studies, it is believed that dreams occur because of the process during REM sleep when the brain synapses are activated and intensive firing of neuronal pathways that hold memories and experiences occurs. This process could very well be what causes dreaming and recalling of prior experiences, future goals and a mix of the two.

Most common dreams are those of individuals being chased, embarrassed, failing something, or falling. All of these dreams can be derived from different situations and causes. Everyone puts a different emphasis on different aspects of their life; so similar dreams can have different interpretations based on the person and his/her experiences.

While dreams are still a mystery, it is known that REM sleep is essential for the body and mind’s health and wellness. Going through enough stages of REM at night is what will allow you to function adequately during the daytime.

Are You Getting Enough Sleep?

Fri, 27 Jul 2012 02:49:28 GMT

It seems that everyone says the ideal amount of sleep you should be getting on a nightly basis is at least 8 hours. In actuality though, everyone is different. Some people can function just fine on 4-5 hours of sleep, while others need 9-10 hours of sleep to be at peak performance. Knowing how much sleep you need, as an individual will help you determine if you are, in fact, getting enough sleep.

Determining how much sleep you are getting now is not that cut and dry. You may base your hours of sleep on the time you go to bed and the time you wake up. It is not that simple though. What also needs to be taken in to consideration is how long it takes to go to sleep and if you wake up during the night, how long you are up and how long it takes to go back to sleep. You may find that you are getting even less sleep then you thought.

So how much sleep is enough for you? There is a test you can take to determine if you are getting the right amount of sleep for you. Some questions you can ask yourself are: Do I need an alarm clock to wake up? Do I have a hard time getting out of bed in the morning? Do I have trouble staying awake while driving? Do I have trouble concentrating on things or remembering? Do I fall asleep as soon as I go to bed? Did you answer yes to any of these questions? If you did, then you are not getting enough sleep.

To determine how much sleep you need, go to bed at a time that is 8 hours before you have to get up. Stick to going to bed at this time, but make not as to what time you wake up. Keep in mind that you may wake up earlier since you are not used to this sleep schedule, however, if you do start sleeping longer that means are not getting enough sleep. Once you do start sleeping longer, go to bed 30 minutes earlier for a week, then 15 minutes earlier the following week. Keep going to bed earlier in increments of 15 until you wake up when you need to on your own and you have energy throughout the whole day. If you want to then test yourself to see if you are getting the right amount of sleep, go to bed 15-30 minutes later one night and see if you feel drowsy the next day. If you do, then you know going to bed at the earlier time is right for you.

Personally I know that I do not get enough sleep since I can easily take a nap every afternoon if I had the time. However, if you are a person who is getting the right amount of sleep, I would love to hear from you in the comments with any tips or methods you can share.

How Is Memory Foam Made

Thu, 12 Jul 2012 16:10:45 GMT

Most of us know that memory foam was originally created by NASA to help absorb the extreme G-force pressure placed on astronauts at take-off and landing, but few of us know how they actually make memory foam. It's really a very cool process!

While the exact recipe for memory foam is kept secret, we know that memory Foam, or visco-elastic polyurethane foam (as scientists like to call it), is made primarily from polyurethane with some additional chemicals added to increase its density and viscosity. This increased density and viscosity in turn creates a foam that's more supportive than other foams and also allows it to mold to our bodies.

All of the memory foam ingredients are kept in liquid form in separate tanks. When it's time to make a batch of memory foam, metered pumps release the proper amount of each ingredient into a smaller tank. In this tank, the ingredients are all mixed together and heated so that the chemicals can combine and react. This liquid is then sprayed onto a conveyor belt, where it begins to rise.

The conveyor belt is very long and typically with raised sides. The foam begins to undergo a chemical change, which causes a raise in temperature, which in turn causes the foam to expand and rise. As the foam rises, the raised sides on the conveyor belt keep the memory foam contained, so as to create a square shape. Once the memory foam has cooled and is finished expanding, it is cut into uniform lengths. Since the foam is not ready to be stacked yet, it is then set to be cured. Once cured, the memory foam is ready to be trimmed down even further to create mattresses, mattress toppers, pillows, etc.

When memory foam is used in a mattress, the memory foam is stacked upon other layers of thicker, more firm foam that help support the heavier layer of memory foam. And you're probably wondering what happens to those scraps of memory foam back at the factory? Nothing goes to waste! The scraps of memory foam are either broken down and used in pillows or other consumer items, or used as carpet padding!

Now that you know where memory foam comes from, what are you waiting for? Go buy your mattress or mattress topper today!

Alleviate Tossing And Turning With Memory Foam

Mon, 18 Jun 2012 15:38:18 GMT

Over the course of our lives, our bodies change regularly. Whether it's from aging, surgery, or just general life or family changes, our sleep patterns also change throughout our lives. What once was a comfortable place for us to sleep can literally change overnight, causing us to toss and turn and wake up feeling sore and tired.

Before you go out and spend money on a new mattress, make sure you consider your options. Memory foam mattresses are becoming more and more popular, and there's a good reason for that. Memory foam was originally created by NASA to help absorb the great force that take-off had on astronauts bodies, so you know it's quality stuff, but what about the negatives we've all heard over the years when it comes to using memory foam in a mattress? I'm here to let you know that most of the qualities that used to take away from the memory foam sleeping experience have been resolved with time and new technology, now making memory foam probably the best option out there for a good nights sleep!

Memory foam works by conforming to your body's curves and weight to eliminate excess pressure on your joints and other parts of your body. For example, if you're a side sleeper on a regular coil mattress, your shoulder and hip have quite a bit of pressure put on them just due to the natural curve of your body and the mattresses inability to conform to that curve. With memory foam, the mattress will actually mold to the curve of your shoulder and hip, eliminating the excess pressure and instead cradling the joints, thus allowing you to sleep in peace and wake up without the added pain. Plus, memory foam is durable and lasts much longer than many of it's coil or air mattress counterparts.

I know the last time I purchased a mattress, I consider memory foam, but since I had heard that it creates a very warm sleeping environment, I chose to pass. Thankfully, due to new technology, this is no longer a problem with many memory foam mattresses or toppers. If you tend to be a warm sleeper to start with, make sure you look for newer technology memory foam that includes added ventilation or cooling wood pulp or gel product. This newer memory foam technology eliminates the hotter sleeping environment of yesteryear's memory foam.

Another rumor about old school memory foam was that it smelled funny. I'll be honest, that wasn't just a rumor. It did smell pretty funny. However, now most memory foam mattresses now have added products like green tea extracts or charcoal technologies to help eliminate the typical memory foam smell and also absorb moisture.

If you've overlooked memory foam in the past because of some of the downfalls the product used to have, now is the time to reconsider. Technology has made memory foam what it is today, and I will personally guarantee you the best sleep you've ever had if you make the switch!

Avoid Sending That Old Mattress To The Landfill

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 14:50:02 GMT

Old mattresses are eating up room in our landfills. To be exact, over 300 mattresses and box springs arrive in a single landfill in only a day! This can't be good for our environment. They can't be broken down properly and take up tons of space, but most people aren't quite sure what else to do with them, so that's why they end up in the trash. I'm going to give you a few ideas of what you can do with your old mattress to keep it out of the landfill.

First things first. Don't go buy that new mattress yet. I have terrible back problems and my mattress (which wasn't even that old yet) was getting a saggy spot in the middle. I'd wake up in the middle of the night every night with a horribly painful back, and usually couldn't even finish the rest of the night out. I knew I wasn't in any place to purchase a new mattress, so I decided to try the next best thing. A memory foam mattress topper. I actually got mine off Craigslist, so it cost me only $20, but this isn't always the best option for everyone. If you do get yours used, just make sure it's from a clean environment and doesn't have a bunch of stains or anything. Even new toppers, however, are much cheaper than a new mattress, and are usually quite compact, easy to get home, and easy to put on. I would recommend purchasing the thickest one you can afford, as it will last you that much longer and get you more relief. I haven't had a bad night sleep since I added my memory foam topper. For $20, it was like I was sleeping on a whole new mattress!

If it's just time for a new mattress, then make sure you're doing everything you can to make the best use out of the old one that you can. Before tossing it out, trying posting it on a freebie site like Craigslist, Freecycle, or DonationTown.org. I know that sometimes these websites can be frustrating to use because of no-shows, but you'll feel great about yourself when a single mom that can't afford that mattress for her kids picks up the one that you were about to toss. Plus, you usually see who your item is going to and it puts a face to who you're helping. If that's not the best option for you, call around to donation centers and see if you can find somewhere that will accept your mattress for donation. While many of the larger organizations won't accept mattresses, look for local non-profits that do. Every night, there are people who go to sleep on the floor and they aren't picky with what kind of mattress they have, just as long as it's a mattress. Many organizations will even pick the mattress up so they can get it to those in need.

If you're handy, you can repurpose the mattress. Now, this wouldn't be my forte, I'll admit it, but if you do quite a bit around the house in terms of crafts or repairs, it might be right for you.

Buttons and braiding can both be carefully removed and reused for sewing projects
Foam padding works well for stuffing pillows or as packing material for fragile items
Mattress padding can be carefully removed and re-sewn into pet beds, garden pads, or dish scrubbers
Fabric from larger mattresses can be removed in one piece and used as painting drop-cloths or cleaning rags
Wood framing can be used for a number of household handyman projects
Wire springs are wonderful in the garden since they're so strong. Use them as a trellis, plant support, fencing - the possibilities are endless!

If these options just don't work for you, try recycling your old mattress. Unfortunately, since mattresses are made of so many different materials, they're aren't that easy to recycle yet, but try going to Earth911.com to see if there's a mattress recycling center near you. If not, EcoHaul.com will pick up many household items for a low fee and promise to recycle as much of the items as possible before sending to the landfill. Up to 85% of a mattress can be recycled when broken down properly, so it really does help the environment if you take the extra time to find somewhere that will recycle your old mattress. Wouldn't you rather see that old mattress reused for carpet padding, clothing, fabric, and fuel, then just take up valuable space in a landfill?

Most importantly, if you take care of your mattress you can postpone this whole situation. Flip your mattress every few months (I know it's a pain, but it really will extend the life), don't get it wet, and don't let the kids jump on it! Remember - every extra day you get out of your current mattress is like money in your pocket!

Creating A Better Night's Sleep With Color

Thu, 07 Jun 2012 18:12:04 GMT

I would bet if I interviewed 20 adults, probably 17 or 18 of them would tell me that they don't sleep as well as they'd like to. Many of us have problems sleeping, but when it comes right down to it, it might actually be partially our own fault. There are several things you can do in addition to upgrading to a memory foam mattress.

How many of us fall asleep with the tv or radio on, or work on our laptop in bed before going to sleep? I know I do. I wind down for the night by catching up on my dvr recordings while lying in bed. Sometimes I even fall asleep while watching tv. Many studies have been done, and it's been recommended that we use our bedroom ONLY for sleeping (well, and I suppose changing clothes and maybe a few grown up activities, but that's about it). By having tv's and laptops in our bedrooms, it makes the environment less relaxing and more distracting, thus making sleep more difficult.

Well, if the goal is for our bedroom to be more relaxing, maybe it would make sense to make sure it looks relaxing as well. I don't know from experience, but would assume that it would be much more difficult for me to relax in a room with fire engine red walls or surgery room grade fluorescent lights, for example. The easiest way to probably start making our bedrooms more relaxing is by considering the color of the walls. Who knows, maybe a simple coat of paint could have you sleeping better in no time! Especially since it's been proven that different colors evoke different moods and emotions from us.

Soft greens and blues are ideal for a bedroom. They promote calming and tranquility and often are related with nature and the outdoors. Use pastel shades of blue and green, as these colors offer less energy and are thus more calming than their turquoise and yellow-green counterparts, which are too harsh for a bedroom environment.

Whites and creams are (obviously) other great colors for bedrooms, as they remain very neutral and are also very soothing. Whites and creams can be a bit boring for some people, however, so whites or creams can also work very well as the main color of the room with one wall painted with another soothing accent color. Plus, if your bedroom is very small or has few windows, whites and creams are the perfect colors to make the room feel bigger and not as dark, and thus less depressing.

Before making any decisions, make sure you test samples of the paints you're considering in your bedroom before actually committing. Many colors will look completely different in the store or on a display then they will under the lighting of your own bedroom. Take the samples home to test it out in the lighting it will be seen under, just to make sure you still like your choice. Remember, dark colors will make a room look smaller or more cozy, which may be ok for larger rooms, but don't usually work for smaller or poorly lit rooms. Stay away from bright colors that add energy to a room, as this will make it much harder for you to relax, and you will most likely have a much more difficult time falling asleep. Sweet dreams!

Besides a Memory Foam Mattress, Here Are a Few Tips to Help You Sleep

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:54:00 GMT

Do you find it difficult for you to get a good night's sleep after a long day at work or play? Memory foam mattresses andmemory foam pillows are designed to help your body and mind revitalize and rejuvenate. If you do not have a memory foam mattress to help relax your body into a deep slumber, here are some tips to help you catch your z’s and remain fresh for the next day.

Stay Nourished Eating just before you go to sleep or not eating anything at all can cause you to wake up several times during the night. Our metabolism slows down when we sleep so if you eat just before going to sleep, your body will store all the calories in the form of fat instead of burning them off. There should be a gap of at least three hours between dinner and bed time. Sleeping on an empty stomach can also give you a sleepless night as your body needs food. If you feel hungry before going to bed, a light snack will do.

Relax With A Bath Taking a warm bath around 90 minutes before going to bed also helps get a restful night's sleep. Studies have shown that our body temperature starts dropping about two hours before bedtime in order to help induce drowsiness. This will help in relaxing the body and mind and reduce stress. Also, the bath would raise your body temperature so when you’re in bed there’d be a steeper drop in body temperature giving you a deeper sleep.

Dress Appropriately Sometimes you might feel cold before going to bed but do not overdress as it is only due the lowering of your body temperature to promote sleep. Get into bed in your normal clothes but if you still feel cold then adjust your room temperature before wearing more clothes.

Stretch Before Bed Stretching before bedtime increases blood flow and reduces body tension. It also lowers blood pressure and cholesterol and improves posture and blood circulation. But don’t hold any position for more than 30 seconds or you may end up injuring yourself.

Have a good night’s sleep!

Nature's Sleep Biocrystal Memory Foam Mattress Lulls Bears To Sleep

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 20:41:00 GMT

Most top sportsmen have their superstitions, methods of preparation before the games, little things that make them different than their teammates or other athletes. The Zagreb Bears aren't superstitious, and they achieve their great fitness, excellent health and good results because they believe in good sleep and top-class Nature’s Sleep mattresses on which they rest and sleep after hard trainings and games.

Nature’s Sleep BioCrystal mattresses are the latest product of company Pavletić in whose quality football players of Barcelona, as well as great sport stars Blanka Vlašić and Janica Kostelić have made sure. Since recently Medveščak hockey players also sleep on Bio Crystal mattresses and they found out all the charms and secrets of a surface made from a combination of 6 mineral types, 12 crystal types and four precious metals.

This surface is unique because it's the only one that acts instantly. The warmth spreading through the whole body as a reflection of big positive energy entering and cleansing the energetic body can be felt right away.

Crystals and minerals in the surface of BioCrystal balance and strengthen the body's energy and regenerate the state of bioenergetics field. By that they improve general health condition, and at the same time effectively protect from natural and technical radiation; thanks to these Nature’s Sleep mattresses the Bears enjoy the most comfortable "hibernation".

Win a Memory Foam Pillow of Your Choice from Nature's Sleep

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 19:31:00 GMT

Because Everybody Deserves a Great Nights Sleep, Nature's Sleep would like to offer you the chance to win a memory foam pillow of your choice!

In addition to memory foam pillows Nature's Sleep also carries memory foam mattresses, Visco Memory Foam Mattresses, Visco Toppers, Wood KD-Foundations, Visco Memory Foam Pet Beds, and Visco Slippers. Stay tuned for a new product every month! You can also check our Facebook page for promotions being held with our Nature's Sleep Bloggers around the web.

Please fill out the Rafflecopter form below for a chance to win a memory foam pillow of your choice from Nature's Sleep!

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