Better Sleep, Better Health: Tips for the Best Rest
By Genevieve Cunningham
There is absolutely nothing that can replace a good night's sleep. The feeling of being well rested is one of the best feelings. It brings a sense of wellness, more focus, and more energy. It improves mood and productivity. It's extremely important for daily life. Unfortunately, most people don't get adequate sleep. Either they don't get enough, or the quality is really poor. Or sometimes it's both! Luckily, improving your sleep can drastically improve your health -- and it's not as hard as you think. If you're ready to feel better every day, take a look at how you can improve your sleep with some simple habits.
Get Strict
You may not want to do it, but it's really important to follow a bedtime. When we have a routine, our bodies get used to it. They learn the patterns. They learn when it's time to wind down. But in order to make this habit work, you may have to get strict. Force yourself into the pattern. Make yourself go to bed. Turn off the TV and put down your phone. Yes, it will take work and patience. But if it means better sleep at the end of the day, then it's definitely worth it.
Wind Down
It's hard to go from busy, busy, busy to asleep in a short time frame. We're not wired that way. Our brains need a chance to slow down. Make sure that you're giving yourself a fighting chance by winding down every night. Take a hot shower, read a book, get in a stretch. Do whatever feels good and allows your body and mind to slow down. Over time, your body will learn the cues and begin the wind down process all on its own.
Watch Your Diet
Diet affects everything. If you're consuming caffeine or other stimulants in the late afternoon or evening, it may be significantly affecting your sleep. It may be keeping you awake when you should be in bed. If this is true for you, it's time to adjust your diet. Stop all caffeine before noon. Eat foods that help you relax. Try an herbal tea in the evening to help you unwind. Changing your diet can affect everything in your life -- weight, energy, and even your sleep.
Sleep affects everything else in your life. If you're not getting enough, you're going to feel less than your best, both mentally and physically. Use these tips to improve your sleep, and enjoy the health benefits that come along with adequate rest.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in South Gate, Calif.