Many people struggle to sleep at night for one reason or another – whether that be because they can't stop their thoughts spinning, they are too hot, or they just can't get comfortable.
Whatever the reason, it can be endlessly frustrating just lying there while your brain refuses to switch off.
Luckily, a sleep expert claims a simple, daily ritual can help you drift off quicker – and there are other surprising benefits.
Sammy Margo, Sleep Expert at Dreams, revealed that cracking the window open at night, if it's safe to do so, is beneficial for sleeping – whatever the time of year.
One of the main reasons for this is that it will bring in cold air, which can "help you nod off faster". Sammy added: "Research has found that exposure to heat increases wakefulness and decreases periods of rapid eye movement sleep.
"This ultimately means the warmer the room, the harder it is to fall and stay asleep, so having some fresh air can help prevent this.
"Having the cool air flowing in can also help cool down our bodies throughout the night, which is what we need to have a restful night's sleep."
According to Sammy, the optimal temperature for your bedroom is between 16-18 degrees, and fresh air can also promote sleep.
The sleep expert added: "The National Sleep Foundation found that there is a link between fresh air and relaxation.
"When trying to unwind you want to be relaxed and comfortable, fresh air provides us with a cooling effect that allows this to take place."
Having your window open at night will also help reduce the build-up of emissions from pets and dust mites, and the build-up of CO2.
Sammy added: "Higher CO2 levels increase awakenings during the night and decreases sleep quality and depth.
"The oxygen we breathe at night naturally builds up as we sleep, and without proper ventilation, this can cause health issues such as headaches, nausea, and dizziness.
"You will most likely feel the full effects in the morning when you wake up, so some nice cool air at night can help prevent this."
In addition to this, having the window open will create natural white noise, which can help you sleep.
Sammy explained: "Whether it's gentle raindrops, or the chirp of birds in the morning these sounds serve as perfect natural noises to help you sleep.
"With the rise of sleep apps and people constantly looking for the next podcast to fall asleep to, we could just tune into our surroundings and focus on the natural sounds as these often provide the same benefits.
"Ultimately, most people will benefit from having their windows open, especially as we approach warmer days, but it’s important to consider your own circumstances too when it comes to noise."
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