A healthy bedroom is central to productive, positive living. It should be relaxing, free from daily distractions and provide a sanctuary that is restful and rejuvenating. Here are six easy ways to get your bedroom aligned with the needs of your body, mind and spirit.

Leave the Daily Grind Behind

The bedroom is often the place where we “crash” at the end of long days. Unfortunately, we often fail to leave the day at the door. Computers, TVs, cell phones and other electronics aren’t conducive to a good night’s rest and should have designated spaces outside the bedroom. Too much brain stimulation affects sleep, especially when gathered late at night or before sleep.

Even electronics that are turned off or not in use affect the mind’s ability to relax. For instance, keeping your laptop case in the bedroom is a constant reminder of work even if it’s turned off. Keep it outside the bedroom and “forget about it” for the day. Same goes for general storage. Too many books, unread magazines, unfolded laundry all add up to things that need to be done and keep your mind engaged when you want to disconnect it.

Gentle on the Eyes

Light pollution can be difficult to overcome in today’s ever developing world but a healthy bedroom is one where light is natural and gentle. Digital displays, standby lights, streetlights, nightlights are all sleep disrupting sources of light. To control external light intrusion choose drapes and window treatments that block light.

Interior light sources can be controlled by removing electronics or unplugging them. If a digital clock is the source, consider placing it in a location that can’t be seen when lying on the bed. Tucking the clock in a bedside shelf means it doesn’t stare at you but you can easily check the time by sitting up.

Quiet Rest

Noise pollution is another growing problem in both urban and rural areas. Airplanes, cars, lawn care all create enough decibel level to disrupt sleep. Frequencies from electronics also add unwanted ambient noise. Soundproofing the bedroom and eliminating noise is the best way to create quiet. If noise persists, “white noise” machines or devices like fans are another solution.

Keep it Cool

Temperature plays an important and often overlooked part in restful sleep. Throughout different sleep phases, the body’s temperature changes naturally. A rise in body temperature is part of waking up. Keeping the bedroom too hot makes sleep difficult and is a waste of energy. The ideal air temperature for sleep is 65 F, even in winter. During colder months leave the thermostat lower and use comforters or blankets to keep comfortable. This not only saves energy but allows a restful sleep that is aligned with your body’s natural temperature rhythms.

Natural Comfort

Mattresses, bedding and pillows are the most important bedroom accessories and not the place to skimp. Materials should be as natural as possible avoiding chemicals and toxins. If it’s time for a new mattress, consider choices without PBDEs or petrochemicals. Natural or organic cotton or organic cotton are optimal for particularly chemically sensitive people. There are also natural latex mattresses that help control microbes, bacteria and dust mites.

Opt for pillows made from untreated or organic cotton. Same goes for sheets, blanket, duvet covers and comforters. There are also great choices for natural bedding made of bamboo and hemp. These natural textiles have made wonderful advances in the past several years to provide comfortable, beautiful and renewable products.

Air it Out

One of the most important elements of a healthy bedroom is the air quality. Throughout the home, but especially here, make every effort to eliminate chemicals, toxins, allergens, dust and contaminants.

Eliminate contaminants by keeping the bedroom tidy and clutter-free. Old draperies, furniture and carpets should be removed and consider that you may not need them at all before replacing them. Consider buying a portable air filter to keep in the bedroom.