You care about what you eat, how you exercise, where you work, and everything in between. So why not care about how well you sleep? Sleep constitutes about 1/3 of your total time alive; no other single activity comes close. With a little forethought, you can enjoy your time sleeping just as much as your time awake.
Making sure you stick to a schedule, eating the right foods (or avoiding the wrong foods) before sleeping, and limiting caffeine intake after noon can drastically improve your sleep. You can supplement with melatonin, chamomile, magnesium, and other natural aids to fill in the gaps when you encounter additional stress or need for better sleep.
Sometimes it is not easy to fall asleep while wearing snoring aids or the SnoreRx, but over time you can adapt to sleeping with a snoring device.
Apart from a nightly regimen, your morning activities can make the most of the sleep you got. A little morning exercise goes a long way, as does exposure to a healthy amount of sunlight. Practicing mindfulness in meditation or prayer can also cultivate a calm, relaxed mentality better suited for rest. This can be done in the morning or at night, as required.
If your mind still races in bed, stick to low light activities to get out any excess energy. Writing in a journal or reading a book are great examples, but try to stay away from electronics that give off light. These will disrupt your body’s natural desire for a darkened sleeping space. Turning off all your electronics can signal your body that it’s time for shut-eye.
The benefits of good sleep don’t end with just feeling well rested. As Dr. Axe points out in the infographic below, good sleeping habits can reinforce your immune system and help prevent weight gain. Above everything, make sure you are comfortable while sleeping. A lumpy mattress or improper temperature could be the X-factor in keeping you from getting the rest you deserve.
Source: Dr. Axe
Hi, I'm Helen Hudson a health geek mom to two awesome boys. Wife of a snoring husband. Photographer, writer and Co-Editor at snorenation.com