Author Archives: charlesprogers
Sleep Habits from Around the World
Post by Tracy Kaler.
It may come as a surprise, but different cultures possess different sleep habits. Spend any time in other countries, and you’ll soon figure out that although everybody sleeps, we differ in our sleep habits and patterns.
In FRANCE, people sleep an average of 8.8 hours per night. Studies show that more sleep contributes to healthier, happier, and even thinner people, which might explain why the French spend so much time at the table eating but tend to be thinner than those in some other countries. Eating fresh food and skipping fast and processed food might also have something to do with that theory.
Folks in MEXICO like to keep their bedrooms tidy – 82% make their bed every morning, more than any other country in the study. And in the UK, one third of all Brits tend to sleep in the nude, which helps regulate body temperature.
According to the sleep tracking app,
Many Mediterranean countries take siestas or midday naps, but even in SPAIN, that tradition isn’t as common as it once was.
A lot parents and babies around the world do sleep together. In fact, in some cultures, it’s unheard of to allow babies to sleep alone, so cosleeping is expected. Eventually, young children are weaned to sleep in their own beds.
Unfortunately for SINGAPORE and JAPAN, sleep deprivation is on the rise. In JAPAN however, SIDS and infant mortality rates are incredibly low, which might be attributed to the acceptance of cosleeping (children sharing a bed with parents). In the US, cosleeping is not as socially accepted as it is in some other countries.
Generally, few of us in the world are getting enough sleep on most days of the week. It turns out, though, that Sundays are the happiest mornings because most countries wake up feeling refreshed and in a great mood. At least we have that much in common.
Bedroom Design: A Quick Lesson on Cut Pile Carpeting for the Bedroom
Post by Tracy Kaler.
If you a prefer soft, cushy floor covering for your bedroom (yes, your toes will thank you), then this blog post is for you. While there’s a host of different types of carpeting, some synthetic and some made from natural fibers, here’s a quick overview of cut pile carpeting (sometimes just called “plush”), a good choice and some of the comfiest flooring for a bedroom.
What is cut pile? Commonly used in bedrooms, cut pile has no loops and tends to feel softer than loop pile carpets, making it a more practical choice for the bedroom. Since yarns are cut, the carpet feels denser. Looking for soft carpet for your bedroom? Consider these types of cut pile carpeting.
Plush (velvet)
This carpet has a smooth almost sleek, formal look to it. You’ll see those footprints and vacuum marks, but you might not mind so much because this carpeting feels luxurious.
Textured plush
This type of carpet is versatile and can work with most design styles. If your bedroom is going to be used for more than sleeping, textured plush is a good choice because it’s a little tougher than these other options. You won’t see footprints or vacuum marks either.
Frieze
A good choice for an informal bedroom that gets regular activity, frieze will be more casual than plush or textured plush and footprints and marks won’t be so noticeable.
Saxony
The finish is smooth on saxony carpet, but because the fibers are longer (and twisted), furniture dents are common. Saxony is one of the most popular carpets types.
Cable
Besides plush, cable is probably the most comfortable carpeting on this list. The fibers are long and thick and can crush easily, so it’s best for low-traffic areas like the master bedroom.
Shopping for carpet? You’ll discover many other types such as sisal, linen, silk, and the famed Wilton, a high-end woven carpet. Select your bedroom carpet based on lifestyle, price, and taste. Not looking for wall-to-wall carpeting? Go with an area rug, instead.
Bedroom Design: How to Avoid a Cookie Cutter Bedroom
Post by Tracy Kaler.
It’s easy to order every piece of furniture, lamp, and accessory from a one-stop shop, but that wouldn’t be much fun, now would it? Days of bedroom suits are long gone, and the most impressive and well-designed rooms show a selection of pieces, often borrowed from different periods of history and created by designers and furniture makers from around the globe. If you feel as if you’re in a decorating rut, then this post is for you. Read on for tips how to avoid a cookie cutter bedroom. Spoiler: It’s easier than you think.
Don’t buy matching furniture.
Selecting two different bedside tables or nightstands is completely acceptable if not preferred in some instances. Choose a drawered nightstand for one side of the bed and a small table or side chair for the other.
Shop flea markets.
Browse local yard sales, antique markets, and gently used furniture stores for affordable finds and one-of-kind items. You’ll be amazed at the cool furnishings that someone else doesn’t want or need.
Mix vintage with modern.
Combining styles isn’t everyone’s forte, but start with a design magazine or two for ideas. Pairing an antique bed with modern artwork provides a nice contrast, as does placing that one Scandinavian chair with great lines in the corner. Take chances and play with your room. You’ll learn what works and what doesn’t after a little trial and error.
Layer fabrics.
A solid bed covering works well with a textured throw and patterned pillows. Window treatments can be a bold floral or a soft, neutral sheer.
Mix woods.
Your furniture doesn’t need to be the same wood color as your floors. Don’t be afraid to pair a blond wood with a rich dark tone.
Find unique art.
Shop Etsy for unusual pieces by local artists. Hang posters and postcards. And if framed art isn’t in your budget? Try making your own. Pick up a pen or a paintbrush – take to paper and get creative!
5 Bedtime Beverages to Help You Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Post by Tracy Kaler.
Having trouble sleeping again? You’re not alone. Per the National Institutes of Health, about 30 percent of people have sleep issues, including some degree of insomnia. Not only does the amount and quality of sleep affect your mood and productivity, but a lack of sleep is downright dangerous for your health, especially if you’re sleep deprived for weeks or months.
While there are plenty of natural remedies that can help you get to sleep and stay asleep, you need to find one that works for you. The next time you’re wide awake at midnight, try one of these bedtime beverages.
Cherry Juice
It’s not an old wives’ tale that tart cherry juice can help you sleep better. As a matter of fact, drinking two 8-ounce servings daily (one in the morning and one in the evening) reduces the likelihood of insomnia because cherries are an excellent source of melatonin, the hormone that helps regulate circadian rhythm.
Sleepytime Tea from Celestial Seasonings
This herbal tea’s name says it all. A blend of chamomile, spearmint, lemongrass, and orange blossoms will surely have you snoozing like a baby.
Warm milk
Because it’s high in the amino acid, Tryptophan (known to promote restful sleep), sipping a glass of warm milk about two hours before bedtime should make drifting off a no-brainer. Add a teaspoon of honey for flavor.
Coconut water
Because it contains potassium and magnesium, this energy drink will help your muscles relax, which in turn, will help you relax.
Valerian tea
Valerian is a herb that’s commonly used to treat sleep disorders. Doctors often recommend Get Some Zzz’s from the Republic of Tea. Brew yourself a cup about an hour before you hit the hay.