September 16, 2015
Tips for a Restful Sleep
Restful, restorative sleep is vital to your mental and physical well-being. In our hectic lives, it can be hard to prioritize sleep - but the benefits are absolutely worth it. When you’re well rested, you’re more alert, able to process new information more efficiently, and you make better decisions. During deep sleep is also when the body restores and repairs. Adults need between 6 and 8 hours of sleep each night (experiment to see what feels best for your body).
Perhaps you're already getting 8 hours of sleep each night. But the quality of your sleep matters just as much as the quantity! Your body needs deep, restful sleep to truly recharge. Fall is a time for new beginnings and routines, so this September establish a bedtime ritual to guarantee yourself a good night's sleep every time. Here are some ideas to try:
- Avoid caffeine after noon
- Eat a light dinner a few hours before bed
- Take a leisurely stroll after you eat
- Take a warm bath in the evening - dim the lights and listen to soothing music while you soak
- Diffuse relaxing aromas, like lavendar, in your bedroom
- Invest in a supportive mattress and comfy sheets and pillows
- Drink a cup of warm relaxing herbal tea before bed
- If your mind is very active, journal for a few minutes before bed - let out your thoughts and concerns before you shut your eyes
- Do not watch television or do any work in bed
- Turn off all devices (cell phone, tablet, laptop, etc.) and keep them out of the bedroom
- Once in bed, close your eyes. Pay attention to your body and consciously relax wherever you notice tension. Listen to your inhalations and exhalations as they slow and you drift off.
Sources:
Chopra.com
MedPost.com
AllYou.com
Posted by:
Claire Casher at 1:59 PM |
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