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Step 1
The Norm To Calculate How Much Sleep You Need
The first thing to consider when you try to calculate how much sleep you need to to think about the average amount of sleep that is recommended according to most doctors. Sleep recommendations change with age. Newborns should get between 10.5-18 hours of sleep per day. Infants need 9-12 hours of sleep per day. Toddlers need to 12-14 hours of sleep per day. Preschoolers needs between 11-13 hours of sleep per day. School aged children need between 11-12 hours of sleep per day. Teens need between 8.5-9.25 hours of sleep per day. Finally, adults and most older adults need between 6.5-8.5 hours of sleep per night. When calculating how much sleep to get per night, this is the right place to start. -
Step 2
Experiment to Calculate How Much Sleep You Need
Not sure that you fit into the norms listed in the first step, if so, then it is time to experiment to calculate how much sleep you need. Most experts say to start with 8.5 hours of sleep per night to start. Record how you feel every 4 hours and follow this plan for the next 4 days. Continue this process cutting sleep by 30 minutes every 4 days and continuing to record how you feel throughout the day until you get to 6.5 hours. -
Step 3
Analyze Your Results to Calculate How Much Sleep You Need
Once you have gotten down to 6.5 hours of sleep per night, go back and analyze all the data you collected on how you are feeling. Calculate how much sleep you need by choosing the one that left you feeling the best.
