Sleeping your way to a better day
Is insufficient sleep harming your health? If you're not getting enough or good-quality sleep, it could be. Sleep isn't just downtime; it's a recharge for your body.
Forget the whole "I'll sleep when I'm dead" vibe; not getting enough sleep is no badge of honor. It may unknowingly contribute to adverse health outcomes. The acceptance of this mindset prompts us to question why we tolerate it. New parents, in particular, often assume that sleepless nights are an inevitable part of the journey, but is it necessary? A single sleepless night can make someone as cognitively impaired as they are when legally drunk, which poses potential risks, especially for parents caring for young children.
Given its significant short-term and long-term effects, sleep should be regarded as a non-negotiable. In the short term, lack of sleep can lead to:
Impaired cognitive function
Mood swings
Decreased alertness and productivity
In the long term, chronic sleep deprivation is associated with:
Heart issues
Weakened immune system
Mental health problems
And this should scare you - sleep troubles can precede dementia by seven years!
Figuring out your magic sleep number varies, but around 7-8 hours a night is a good bet. However, it's not just about the hours; quality matters.
Factors like REM and deep sleep play vital roles. You can read more about sleep cycles here.
If you're struggling with sleep, check out these ten tips to step up your sleep game! 😴🌙
Sleep in a room that's cool and dark.
Have a consistent wind-down routine.
Avoid caffeine or alcohol - try an Ayurveda drink or a nighttime tea instead.
Set a sleep schedule that stays fairly consistent.
Exercise regularly but not before bed.
Take a warm bath.
Avoid big meals before bed.
Turn off the phone/computer 30-60 minutes hour before bedtime.
Set up your environment with dim lights, soft music, and essential oils (spray lavender on your pillow/sheets).
Rule out a sleep disorder.
Boosting our sleep routine isn't just for us – it's an investment in our school, our amazing staff, and the well-being of the children we nurture. 💤✨