The brain is not made to multi-task, and if you try to watch TV and read at the same time, you’ll find it is ineffective and frustrating. Turn off the noisy TV, and focus on reading. Light a candle to help you relax or set the mood while you’re reading.
If you’re lying down or sitting on a couch, add something helpful such as a horseshoe pillow or a large slanted pillow. Small neck pillows may be helpful too. Changing positions every 30–45 minutes can also help you to avoid bad posture and can prevent you from feeling discomfort in your neck or back. Bring the book closer to your face to help you straighten out your back slightly.
If you’re studying or finalizing work, consider doing the tough reading earlier in the night. That way, you can leave lighter reading for bedtime.
You can purchase clip-on book lights at department stores, bookstores, or through online retailers. Most book lights require 1 or 2 AA batteries.
This approach may be impractical for an adult trying to avoid waking their partner in the same bed. Your partner may find the rustling under the covers even more distracting than sleeping with the lights on.
If you need reading glasses, wear them. They will reduce the strain that causes your eyes to feel tired.
Experiment with different sitting positions, to see if any help you to stay awake while reading.
Try snacking on pretzels, celery sticks, blueberries, or popcorn.
Also keep in mind that you may wake up in the middle of the night needing to use the bathroom if you drink too much liquid before bed.
If you’re between 6 and 13 years old, you should get 9–11 hours of sleep every night. If you’re between 14 and 17, aim for 8–10 hours of sleep.
Some digital devices suitable for reading come with a stand or you are able to purchase one separately, to allow for hands-free reading.
It is a good idea to turn down the level of brightness of the reading screen and to stop reading on the device about 2 hours before your intended bedtime.
If your smartphone or tablet doesn’t have a function to turn off the blue light, search the app store for an app that performs this function. Just search for “blue light” and look through the results.
