What's the best way to optimize deep sleep and REM sleep?

I’ve heard that deep sleep and REM sleep are crucial for recovery, but I often feel like I’m not getting enough of them. What changes can I make to improve these stages?

this has been my favorite way to use WHOOP for years. here’s my approach:

  • give myself at least an hour of runway when it comes to winding down before bed
  • no big/heavy/sugary/fatty meals late at night
  • hot shower before bed
  • clean or ideally fresh sheets
  • quiet, clean and dark room
  • keep my room relatively cold, ~66 degrees works best for me
  • Sleep Mask + Blue light glasses (WHOOP sells great ones)
  • journal + read in bed

YMMV but you can test what works best for you by using the journal