Benefits of Sleep

Do you get enough sleep? I know the answer is a big NO. Most of us do not. Some people fall asleep quickly; others do not. Some people wake up during the night, unable to go back to sleep. Adults need between seven and nine hours of sleep a night. If you think you don't have enough hours in the day to get this amount of sleep, the following sleep habits might encourage you to prioritize sleep as a necessary act of self-care.

Feeling well-rested is one obvious benefit of getting a good night's sleep. These other not-so-obvious benefits should be the motivation you need to get more shut-eye.

Adequate sleep:

• Reduces stress

• Improves your memory

• Gives your body time to heal and repair itself

• Can help you lose weight

• Assists with heart health and preventing cancer

  
  

One of the things that affects the Circadian Rhythm is Blue Light.

You can help lessen the effects of blue light by shutting down all electronic devices- smartphones, iPads, laptops- a few hours before bed, wearing blue-light blocking glasses, or eliminating screen time from your evening routine entirely. Save emails, Facebook, and media outlets for the next day. Give your mind time to unwind from the day's stress. Also, limit caffeine and alcohol as they are stimulants and can interfere with a peaceful night of rest.

Creating a sleep sanctuary is a great way of practicing self-care.

• Invest in quality bedding that feels good against your skin. Buy pillows that support and cradle your neck and head, and a mattress topper that protects your back. Waking up with a stiff neck or back is not fun.

• Get a fan or use air conditioning to keep your room cool. Set the AC to a comfortable temperature where you at least need a sheet and a comforter over you.

• Buy blackout curtains and hang them over your blinds/shades at every window.

• Remove all screens and work-related items from your room.

• Get an air filter, humidifier, or white noise machine to block out disruptive sounds, traffic, sirens, or noisy neighbors.

• Keep lavender-scented candles or lavender oil in your room and use it nightly. Lavender is known to reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and promote relaxation.

• Invest in a dimmer for the light in your room or dimmable side table lamps to create a peaceful, relaxing environment before bed.

• Get ready to enjoy the peaceful night of sleep that you deserve!