Public Health Department offers tips for better sleep

Published on April 30, 2026

A good night’s rest can be elusive in our busy lives, but the benefits are far-reaching.

Beyond just a break from being on the go, sleep is a time when our bodies repair tissues and our brains process memories and flushes out plaque.

Oak Park Public Health Department officials are encouraging adequate, high-quality sleep this May during Better Sleep Month. How? Just remember S-L-E-E-P:

• Schedule – work to create a consistent sleep and wake-up time. This will support your body’s natural sleep rhythms.
• Limit – cut down or limit alcohol, caffeine, nicotine and eating heavy foods for about an before your bedtime.
• Exercise – add daily physical activity to your routine, even if it’s just a walk. Check out a local park, or the CRC to get yourself moving!
• Eliminate – eliminate or shorten daytime naps to make sure you’re tired at bedtime
• Preserve – save the bedroom just for sleep, and limit eating, reading, watching TV or scrolling on your phone in bed. This helps your body and mind associate bed with strictly sleep. Keep our bedroom dark and cool, and create a peaceful place to rest.

For more information, contact the Public Health Department at health@oak-park.us or 708.358.5480.