Relax: Take the 'Rest Test'

Americans are heading to their bedrooms to escape the stress and strain of everyday life.

Seventy-six percent of adults seek the refuge of their bed for rejuvenation, and 69 percent agree that their bedroom is their favorite room for relaxing, according to a new survey conducted by the Better Sleep Council (BSC).

"This is not surprising," says Andrea Herman, Director of the Better Sleep Council. "We live in a go-go-go society, and at the end of the day we just want to go to our bedroom, shut the door, lie down and relax."

"However, as relaxing as your bedroom may seem, you're only going to be as relaxed as your bed allows you to be. Linens and comforters are nice, but a comfortable mattress is essential to help you unwind, let your thoughts drift, and forget your stresses for awhile," says Herman.

Create a Cozy, Comfortable Bed

Just because your bed or bedroom is visually appealing with plush pillows, patterned comforters, and high thread count linens, doesn't mean it's comfortable or will help you relax. In fact, unless you've factored in a comfortable mattress, you'll never fulfill your bed's comfort potential. "Looking comfortable is not the same as feeling comfortable, especially when it comes to your bed," says Herman.

"Many people invest in the visual element of their bed, trying to make it a cozy 'sleep haven.' But to derive the full benefit from your investment, you need to start with the foundation of your bed -- the mattress -- to help ensure that you'll be as comfortable as you'd like in bed," stated Herman.

If you think your mattress may be keeping you from needed rest and rejuvenation, take the "rest test" to find the most comfortable mattress for you. The "rest test" makes shopping for a mattress simple. With so many styles and comfort levels to choose from, everyone should be able to find the mattress that's just right for them. "Just remember to trust yourself to know what's right for you," adds Herman.

Relax -- Take the "Rest Test"

"When trying out new sleep sets, remember that the best mattress is the one that feels most comfortable to you. It's good to take recommendations from friends and family, but ultimately, the sleep set that's right for you will meet your individual needs for comfort, support and space," says Herman.

We all deserve to get the best night's sleep possible, and sleeping on a comfortable, supportive mattress is a great way to start. Taking the "rest test" will help ensure that the mattress you purchase is comfortable for you and your partner.

Getting Started

Before you take the "rest test," keep these simple tips in mind:

First, think about your needs. Determine ahead of time what size mattress your room can handle. Your bedroom may be able to accommodate a king-size mattress and you never even knew it.

Second, plan enough time to try out mattresses. Because comfort is a matter of personal preference, you'll want to lie down on mattresses to find the one that's right for you.

Third, wear comfortable clothes. Wear clothes that allow you to move freely when trying out mattresses. Women may want to consider wearing slacks or shorts.

Fourth, shop with your partner. If you sleep with a partner, be sure to shop together. It's important to choose a sleep set that meets both your needs. Otherwise, there's a chance only one of you will be comfortable in bed.

How To

Once in the store, take the following "rest test" to help ensure that the mattress you purchase meets all of your comfort preferences and needs. It's easy. Here's how:

Step One: Lie Down on Your Back.

Ask the following questions:

- Do I feel comfortable? Does my partner feel comfortable?

- Does the mattress gently support all points of my body? Does it support my partner's body?

Contrary to popular belief, a mattress doesn't have to be hard to be good for you. In fact, some people may prefer a plusher feel. When selecting a mattress, your body should be able to relax, with your spine supported in the same position as good standing posture.

Step Two: Get Into Your Usual Sleep Position.

Ask the following questions:

- Do I have enough room to move around easily while I sleep? Does my partner have enough space? Do we have enough room to move freely?

- Do I (we) feel comfortable? Do I (we) feel gently supported?

Your mattress should give you (and your partner) enough room to move freely during the night. You should also feel comfortable regardless of the position you sleep in.

It's that simple. The "rest test" will help you find a mattress that makes your body feel comfortable and relaxed. "When your body feels good, you know you've found the mattress of your dreams," says Herman.

Courtesy of ARA Content, www.ARAcontent.com, e-mail: info@ARAcontent.com

EDITOR'S NOTE: For more information contact Andrea Herman, (703) 683-8371 or Erin Hill (202) 452-9405, erin.hill@ogilvypr.com.