Sleep is one of the most important gifts we can give mind and body. It repairs and rejuvenates and provides energy for the day ahead. If sleep is so important, why do so many people throw away a good night’s sleep?
Having an irregular
sleep schedule is an easy way to throw away a good night’s sleep. Human bodies are designed to sleep to a regular schedule, when this schedule is disrupted, the mind can find it difficult to fall asleep. Going to sleep at approximately the same time each night and not sleeping in on the weekends, can have the sleep schedule back on track in as little as three weeks.
Regular exercise is a good way to physically tire the body, but if practiced too close to bedtime, it can stimulate the mind and body and have and individual tossing and turning for hours. Exercise is best performed earlier in the day so as not to interfere with falling asleep.
Enjoying a large meal before bedtime is a sure way to throw away a good night’s sleep. Going to bed with a stomach full of undigested food can cause acid reflux, indigestion and a restless sleep. A small snack before bed can be fine, but a large meal is best eaten three to four hours before bedtime, leaving the body time to digest the food properly.
Many individuals, who encounter sleep problems, stay awake the following day by consuming sugary treats, cigarettes and caffeinated beverages. These substances can stimulate the body and mind for several hours after they have been consumed. Therefore, an individual with sleep problems should consider reducing or avoiding these stimulants to achieve a good night’s sleep.
A small glass of alcohol may enable some individuals to fall asleep easier, but alcohol in larger doses can interfere with sleep. Alcohol disrupts sleep patterns and can encourage early morning waking.
Taking worries to bed is a sure way to throw away a good night’s rest. Problems should be worked through when they arise or at least scheduled some time to be worked through at a later date. If worries still surface at bedtime, it’s a good idea to write them down on a notepad and commit to dealing with them at a later stage.
Many people unintentionally
throw away a good night’s sleep, but by being more aware of what interrupts sleep, a good night’s rest is possible for most people. However, if sleeplessness persists, a health professional should be consulted.