Do You Get Enough Sleep?
One of the first things my (adult) kids did when they came to visit us after moving was to find the power outlets. You see, their phone batteries were low and needed a recharge. Most people feel cut off from the world when their phone dies. Some feel a great deal of anxiety. So, it’s no surprise that we’re pretty good at making sure our phone battery is recharged on a regular basis.
What about you?
Do you take the time to make sure your “battery” is recharged sufficiently?
In 2014, the CDC called sleep deprivation a public health epidemic. Getting enough sleep is not a luxury – it is crucial for good health. When you are sleep deprived, your cortisol rises, which impacts your blood sugar levels. Lack of sleep can contribute to weight gain, diabetes, heart attacks, high blood pressure, depression, osteoporosis, depressed immunity, affect how well your body uses nutrients, and can impede weight loss.
Your challenge this week it to concentrate on things you can do to recharge your battery each night this week. Everyone’s sleep needs are different but aim for 6 to 8 hours. The tips below can help.
Five easy ways to getting your daily rest:
Eat no later than three hours before bed -- eating prior to bed will lead to a bad night's sleep and will impede the body’s overnight detoxification process.
No TV in the bedroom (& other electronic devices turned off). The blue light from your TV, computer, smart phone, and other electronics can mess up your natural rhythm – your body may think it is daylight and not nighttime. Many people find it helpful to shut off electronics an hour before bed.
Avoid alcohol -- it helps you get to sleep but makes your sleep interrupted and of poor quality.
Avoid caffeine after noon – it makes sleep worse. Even if you think caffeine doesn’t affect your sleep, you’ll be surprised at how much deeper your sleep can be. Herbal teas don’t have caffeine and are ok.
Practice the regular rhythms of sleep -- go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. Even on the weekends!
Try these tips to help you get your best sleep. Keep doing them until they become a habit. Be sure to notice any changes in how you feel.