It’s estimated that about 10% of the world’s population deals with insomnia. Sleep disruptions throughout the night can lead to delayed responses, feeling tired or unwell and even mental health issues like anxiety or depression.
There are countless causes of insomnia — from medical conditions to environmental or lifestyle factors. But one of the biggest contributors is stress. There’s no denying we’re living in a fast-paced, stressful world. The economy often feels unstable, and the cost of living is high. The government seems like it’s in turmoil, and societal issues are becoming more heated than ever.
While there are plenty of things you can do to reduce stress and anxiety in your life, one of the easiest and most effective options is planning a cabin retreat. Getting away from it all for a while and spending time in nature can be incredibly healing and relaxing. Even if it’s only for a few days, de-stressing and getting back to nature can help with your insomnia and can make it easier to get the sleep you deserve.
Disconnecting from the Digital World
Nowadays, most people have at least one digital device, if not more. If you feel like you’re attached to your phone 24/7, you’re certainly not alone. But that could be impacting your mental health as well as your sleep habits.
Going to a cabin for a few days can serve as a digital detox. You can disconnect from technology and the digital world you’re leaving behind. Some of the benefits of a digital detox include:
- Less stress
- Improved focus
- Healthy sleep habits
- More free time
Not sure if you need time away? Maybe you’re willing to admit you’re tired but you’re not sure if you’re struggling with insomnia. Some of the physical signs that you’re not getting enough sleep include dry mouth or a sore throat, breaking out with acne, mood swings, anxiety and difficulty concentrating. Ditching your phone and other digital devices for a few days can help to reduce stress and pressure and encourage you to be more mindful of your surroundings. When you’re out in nature, that can make a big difference in how you feel — and how well you sleep.
Embracing Nature
Nature is an amazing healer. It can improve your physical and mental well-being very quickly. When it comes to helping with sleep, research has found that spending time in nature can prevent short sleep durations. You’ll get longer, more restful sleep.
Nature also helps with stress and anxiety reduction and allows you to feel relaxed and rejuvenated, so your mind doesn’t feel like it’s racing with a million thoughts before you go to bed.
If you want to make the most of your cabin retreat in an area surrounded by natural beauty, take the time to spend at least 30 minutes outside each day. Let in as much natural light as possible, let in fresh air through the windows and find activities that feel restorative. That might include going for a walk alone, sitting by a creek or river and listening to the water or having a picnic with the friends or family you’re staying with.
When you recognize how much better you feel after spending time outside, you can take healthy habits home with you. A cabin retreat can inspire you to spend more time in nature in your everyday life, which can help to improve your sleep health at home.
Design for De-Stressing
Whether you’re staying in a cabin for a few days, a few weeks or longer, you can maximize your well-being and potentially get more sleep by paying attention to the design of the home’s interior.
Your environment has a lot to do with your sleep health — especially the environment in your bedroom. Consider using a biophilic approach to your bedroom design to make the space feel like a sanctuary.
Biophilic design focuses on a connection with nature. In a cabin setting, it’s very easy to incorporate natural elements into your room design by including things like:
- Plants
- Soft paint tones
- Natural views
- Pictures of nature
- Natural finishes and furniture
Again, this design concept is something you can take home with you. While your home might not be as immersed in nature as a cabin, there are things you can do to turn your living space into a small green retreat. Doing so will help to improve your mental well-being and your sleep hygiene.
Additionally, biophilic concepts in your home can help to reduce your dependency on artificial lighting and reduce heating and cooling costs, as well as electricity costs if you’re willing to invest in solar panels.
If you’re concerned that the stress in your life is a contributing factor to your insomnia, don’t hesitate to get some time away. A cabin retreat can help you rediscover peace and quiet. You’ll feel more connected with nature and yourself, and you can return home with healthier sleeping habits and a new appreciation for the restorative power of nature.
