December 05, 2025

The Science Behind Temperature and a Good Night's Sleep

7 minutes

Your body cools down naturally before sleep, and even a one-degree difference in temperature helps determine how quickly you fall asleep and how deeply you rest
Exposing one foot from under the blanket helps your body release heat more efficiently, triggering your brain's sleep signal and promoting faster, deeper sleep
A large study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that people with steady 24-hour skin temperature rhythms enjoyed longer, more restorative sleep and better daytime alertness
Keeping your bedroom cool, dark, and consistent with your body's natural temperature rhythm supports melatonin release and stabilizes your circadian clock
Simple strategies — like cooling your room, using breathable bedding, and developing a nightly wind-down routine — help you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and wake feeling more refreshed

...more

By Dr. Mercola

4.6

14871,487 ratings

December 05, 2025

7 minutes

Your body cools down naturally before sleep, and even a one-degree difference in temperature helps determine how quickly you fall asleep and how deeply you rest
Exposing one foot from under the blanket helps your body release heat more efficiently, triggering your brain's sleep signal and promoting faster, deeper sleep
A large study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that people with steady 24-hour skin temperature rhythms enjoyed longer, more restorative sleep and better daytime alertness
Keeping your bedroom cool, dark, and consistent with your body's natural temperature rhythm supports melatonin release and stabilizes your circadian clock
Simple strategies — like cooling your room, using breathable bedding, and developing a nightly wind-down routine — help you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and wake feeling more refreshed

...more