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The new year is here and with it comes lots of plans for self improvement.

Simply indulging in a good book can be enough to get you drifting off.

A woman reads a book in bed before going to sleep

Here we explore why reading before bed can be so beneficial.

Can reading before bed help you sleep?

Yes, research has shown that reading before bed is an excellent way to encourage good sleep.

Man lying face down asleep in bed

Getting more sleep can have numerous benefits for your health.

Goodsleep can aid recoveryandhelp your immune system, whilebad sleep can take a toll on your mental health.

What kind of books should you read before bed?

A woman lies in bed reading a scary book

At least, if you want to achieve a deep, restful, nightmare-free sleep, that is.

For example, Id recommend avoiding any books that are too mentally stimulating or emotionally distressing before bed.

This includes genres such as intense thrillers, crime novels, or emotionally distressing literature.

What does Dr Hall suggest for bedtime reading?

These genres are more likely to create a conducive environment that promotes better sleep, explains Dr Hall.

Dr Katherine Hall is a Sleep Psychologist who specializes in treating insomnia.

She holds degrees with specializations in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia.