March is National Sleep Awareness Month, although there’s barely been a month I wasn’t aware of my sleep or lack thereof. As someone who has tried it all, from prescription sleep medication to sound machines, I’ve been able to find what really works through a lot of trial and error. Here’s what helps support a sound night’s sleep.
7 Sleep Products That Actually Help Me as an Insomniac
Hatch Restore 3 ($170)
Hatch Restore 3 ($170)
I wanted one of these for so long, and after finally adding one to my bedroom, I can confirm it’s worth the hype. The Hatch helps you build routines that ease you into bed at night and gently wake you in the morning. The sunrise alarm and curated sounds are a beautiful way to wake up slowly without your phone. As someone who frequently wakes up in the middle of the night, having sleep music on the Hatch that I can play with one touch, without looking at my phone, has been a huge help.
AGZ: Nightly Sleep Support ($100)
AGZ: Nightly Sleep Support ($100)
As someone who has taken sleep medication in the past, I didn’t think something as simple as a nightly drink would help me sleep, but AGZ has done the trick time and again. The melatonin-free formula helps promote relaxation and sleep quality without morning drowsiness. I’m partial to the chocolate flavor, warmed with a splash of milk as a nightcap, but they also offer chocolate mint and mixed berry.
Drowsy Silk Sleep Eye Mask ($79)
Drowsy Silk Sleep Eye Mask ($79)
I’ve tried many eye masks, and none compare to Drowsy’s for when I really want to lock into sleep. Its unique shape covers your ears to help muffle sound and block out light. A whopping 83 percent of users called the mask “life-changing,” and I have to agree. It’s a nightly battle between my husband and me over who gets the Drowsy mask and who gets stuck with a standard one.
The Sleep Prescription: Seven Days to Unlocking Your Best Rest ($14)
The Sleep Prescription: Seven Days to Unlocking Your Best Rest ($14)
I resisted reading this book because I knew it said all the things I didn’t want to hear, like that waking up at the same time every day helps improve sleep and that you shouldn’t read or watch TV in bed. However, my husband wouldn’t stop raving about it, and I watched the advice transform his sleep rapidly. Getting used to the techniques might be annoying at first, but the improvement in sleep quality is well worth it.
Oura Ring ($499)
Oura Ring ($499)
The Oura Ring may not necessarily improve your sleep itself, but it can help track patterns and identify what’s helping and what’s hurting your slumber. While trying and eventually coming off sleep medication, the ring helped me see what was actually working to improve how quickly I fell asleep and the quality of my sleep.
NEOM Wellbeing Perfect Night’s Sleep Mist ($23)
NEOM Wellbeing Perfect Night’s Sleep Mist ($23)
I’ve been using pillow mists since I was a child, so I’ve tried my fair share, and NEOM’s is one of the best—Oprah agrees. The relaxing notes of 100 percent natural lavender, chamomile and patchouli help put you at ease instantly. I also like to burn NEOM’s Perfect Night's Sleep Scented Candle ($59) while I’m winding down for extra soothing vibes.
Warmies ($30)
Warmies ($30)
I know this might seem like it’s just for kids, but I promise Warmies have something for everyone. If you ever have cramps or migraines, you need one. They can be heated or chilled to help soothe discomfort, and they’re weighted to relieve stress. A friend sent one to me, and I’ve been surprised by how often I reach for it when trying to fall asleep with cramps or a headache.
