Getting Enough Sleep for Summer
By Donna Stark
It's summertime and you certainly don't want to miss a thing! Your kids are home and your vacations are planned, so now more than ever, you need your rest! Everyone knows that there is nothing better than a good night of sleep. It's the only way you can wake up refreshed and alert in the morning, ready to take on the day. On the other hand, if you don't get the recommended hours of sleep, it could leave you feeling sluggish and grumpy all day long. A definite buzz kill, and nobody wants to be one of those during summer!
Strategies for Better Sleep
Avoid being known as the "grumpy one" in the family and get control over your sleep! You certainly have more of it than you think, but if you aren't sure where to start, here are some suggestions on how to get the quality sleep your body needs.
- Start with a good mattress - There are so many options out there but don't get too confused! Your choice of mattress simply should be flexible enough to adapt to your body's weight and shape, but firm enough to support your spine. And if you share your bed, check out the ones that can adapt to each individual person!
- Invest in a decent pillow - If you have the option to test out pillows, do it! Pillows come in a variety of material, such as foam, feathers, and synthetic fibers, but regardless of what it is made out of, it should keep your head and neck in line with your spine.
- Choose a healthy sleeping position - The recommended position for sleep is either on your back or side. These positions allow your body to relax in its natural alignment the best and reduce any stress or strain on your muscles and joints.
- Get to bed on time - Establishing a bedtime routine helps encourage you to get to bed at the same time every night. This helps to keep your sleep cycle in a regular rhythm and reduces those feelings of fatigue and low energy the next day.
- Avoid the bad stuff - Avoiding alcohol, caffeinated beverages, heavy meals, and exercise within two hours of bedtime may help you fall asleep and stay asleep a lot better! It is also helpful to put those electronic devices down too an hour or so before bed!
Getting Control of Your Rest
Sleep is an extremely important aspect of your overall health and wellness, so make it a priority in your life! Your body uses this time to relax, recover, and rejuvenate so don't squander it away. And if you have continued difficulty getting a good night's rest, you can always come in to see your local chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic. They are always here to help identify the problem and find solutions.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Littleton, Colo.