Recovering From Poor Sleep

By Donna Stark

Quality sleep is vital for your body. It provides the time needed for rest and rejuvenation, it allows your immune system to fight off foreign invaders, and it encourages massive productivity in the day ahead. But you already knew that, didn't you? That's why you take all the necessary steps to prioritize your sleep, right? However, there are still some nights when no matter what you do, you still can't get the shut-eye you need. We all know that a great night of rest can make all the difference in your world, so what actions can you take the day after that will help ensure the next night won't be a repeat? Here are some suggestions.

Get Up

The morning after a poor night of sleep is rough, but don't hit that snooze button and crawl farther under your covers. As tempting as it may be, sleeping in is not the best thing to do. In fact, you should stick to your normal routine as much as possible and get up at the same time you do every other day. Consistency is key here and is vital for your body to maintain its natural circadian rhythm. On top of that, changing your sleep pattern in the morning can have significant effects on your body at your regular bedtime. In other words, you may not be tired and could possibly be setting yourself up for another night of inadequate rest.

Get Outside

Take your breakfast outside or go on a quick walk ... just get in the sunlight! Exposing yourself to natural light cues your body to suppress its production of melatonin, and as a result, you will become more alert and less sleepy. It's also a great way to get your blood pumping for the day ahead of you!

Get Some Coffee

Go ahead and grab that morning coffee, but cut yourself off from that beverage pick-me-up by the time you sit down for lunch. Having too much coffee throughout the entire day will have you buzzing more than that hive of bees outside your window and could potentially make it harder for you to fall asleep when nighttime rolls around.

Get Some Rest

Just because you shouldn't sleep in doesn't mean that you can't take a quick nap in the afternoon if you need it, but the key word here is quick. A long nap can actually do the opposite of what you think it will, so set your alarm for 20 minutes and get up as soon as it goes off. Also, plan for an early afternoon nap as opposed to a late afternoon one. Too much sleep later in the day may keep you up past your normal bedtime.

Get Back on Track

By following the suggestions above, you shouldn't have any problems returning to your normal bedtime routine and getting back on track with quality sleep. Sweet dreams!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Lubbock, Tex.