Why Are You Tired?
By Sara Butler
Do you ever feel as if no matter how much sleep you get, it's simply not enough? Waking up groggy after a full night of rest can be confusing. Why does it happen? It turns out there are a variety of reasons why you may get a full eight hours of sleep but still feel as if you just didn't get enough. Here's what you need to know and what you can do if this happens to you.
You Work Out Too Hard
Most of the time a good workout at the gym can help you to get a better night's sleep. But working out too close to bedtime or pushing your body too hard can have the opposite impact on your sleep.
If you've been hitting the gym hard, it might be time to dial it back just a bit. Take a couple of days off and allow your body to rest. If you are working out too close to bedtime, then there's a simple fix: Work out earlier in the day.
You're Fighting Something
If you're dragging after a full night's sleep, then it could be something as simple as you're getting sick. That's because when your immune system is working to fight off a bug, then your body directs its energy toward that goal. That might cause you to feel extra sleepy as your body is working to heal itself and recover.
If you're feeling under the weather, then give your body what it needs. Take a nap when you can, rest, and avoid strenuous activities. Also, eat healthy foods and drink plenty of fluids.
You Slept Too Much
It is possible to get too much of a good thing. Researchers have found that sleeping too much can actually cause you to feel tired instead of feeling energized. Plus, any divergence from your regular pattern of sleep can cause you to feel lethargic and drowsy. So sleeping in this weekend may have been a mistake.
Make sure to listen to your body when it comes to sleep. You know where your sweet sleep spot is, so stick to it no matter what time you wake up. If that means waking at dawn even on the weekends, then that's what it means.
Being tired all the time isn't natural, so try to discover why you feel that way and what you can do to remedy it.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Los Angeles, Calif.