Sleep, Sweet Sleep

There is nothing like a good night’s sleep. That feeling of waking up in the morning refreshed and ready to tackle the day. Sure, you have a cup of coffee, or three, but not because you need it. Because you want it.

Just because you aren’t working doesn’t mean you don’t still need to get a good night’s sleep. You probably think it’s not as important because you don’t have to be “on” all the time. Or that maybe it will now be easier to sleep without all of the stress that goes along with a job. But you’re wrong.

You probably realize that you do just as much now that you aren’t working as you did when you were. Maybe even more. And that requires a good night’s sleep. In addition to the obvious benefit of giving you the energy you need to tackle the day, a good night’s sleep has a lot of other benefits, too. It helps keep you healthy, helping you to not get sick as often. You’re probably not as grouchy as you are when you sustain yourself with coffee, allowing you to get along better with those around you. And your stress level is lowered.

But if you’re not getting a good night’s sleep, why not?

Your diet can contribute both positively and negatively to your sleep patterns. For instance, eating spicy food or a big meal before bed can have a negative impact. Same with caffeine. What many people don’t realize, however, is that not having a balanced diet – or eating enough – can contribute to sleeplessness.

One of the most obvious reasons people don’t get a good night’s sleep is lack of exercise. The two compliment each other and support each other. We’ve talked about the benefits of exercise and the different types of exercise that you can do. So lace up those sneakers, get out there, and then enjoy your rest.

There really is no such thing as a stress-free life. Even not having a job – especially for you type-A personalities out there – is a stressor. And stress can lead to sleeplessness. The key is to find a way to minimize that stress so that it doesn’t pour over into your falling asleep moments. One of the best ways to do so is to practice good sleep habits – which is another reason you maybe aren’t able to sleep.

But what are bad sleep habits? A better way to describe them is with examples of good sleep habits.

• Don’t stay up too late at night
• Go to bed and wake up at about the same time each night and morning
• Sleep in a cool, dark room
• TVs, tablets, and other devices can stimulate your brain. Be sure to use the blue light shade
• Meditation, a warm bath, and essential oils like lavender can help promote a good night’s sleep, too.

You’re already treating your body well by giving it the nutrients and exercise it needs. Just make sure you are giving it the rest that it needs so that you can tackle all that you do.