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29 reads on the quilt

Well of DreamsA patchwork of calm health reading Ask the Writers
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Restful Sleep

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Practical reading for better nights, from the temperature of the bedroom to the frustrating habit of waking in the small hours.

  1. 06

    Why Do Elderly People Sleep So Much? What Is Normal and When to Ask

    Daytime dozing in later life often traces back to broken nights, medicines or too little to do. A sudden change in sleep, though, is a reason to call the doctor.

    4 min read

  2. 05

    How to Sleep With a Cold: Easing a Cough and Blocked Nose at Night

    Colds always seem worse at bedtime. Raising your head, a warm drink, a steamy shower and a cooler room can make a blocked nose and tickly cough easier to sleep through.

    4 min read

  3. 04

    Why Do We Dream? What Sleep Science Can and Cannot Explain

    Nobody has a single, settled answer to why we dream. Here are the leading ideas, why some mornings bring vivid memories and others none, and how a dream journal works.

    4 min read

  4. 03

    How to Stop Bad Dreams: Calmer Nights After a Run of Nightmares

    A string of unsettling dreams can make bedtime feel like a chore. Most runs of bad dreams have everyday triggers, and a few steady habits often help them fade.

    5 min read

  5. 02

    Why Do I Wake Up at 3am? Common Reasons and Gentle Next Steps

    Waking at the same dark hour night after night is frustrating but common. Light sleep stages, a busy mind, alcohol and a warm room all play a part, and a few calm habits often help.

    3 min read

  6. 01

    Best Temperature for Sleeping: How to Set Up a Cooler Bedroom

    A bedroom that feels a little cool usually makes it easier to drift off and stay asleep. Here is the range many sleep guides mention, plus bedding, airflow and seasonal tweaks that help.

    3 min read