When I was a new mom, I wasn’t prepared for the sleepless nights that come with a new infant. Some nights I was so tired when I got up, that I would just cry as I sat there nursing my baby. Now, some of that was the baby blues, but a big portion of it was simply lack of sleep. I was just plain tired! Even now, several years later, when I don’t get a full night of deep sleep, I can tell by the way I feel physically and emotionally.
Sleep is essential to our health and overall wellbeing. Lack of sleep can cause health issues ranging from mild irritability to increased risk for a heart attack. A poor night’s sleep here and there is nothing to be concerned about, but when it becomes chronic, it’s time to give serious attention to this most important physical need.
Some of our bodies best healing, regenerating, and immune-strengthening functions occur while we sleep. Ever hear the phrase, “the best medicine is a good night’s sleep”? There is great truth in that! When our bodies are in deep, restful, rejuvenating sleep, they are able to rest, repair, and heal. We then can awake with renewed energy to tackle the next day. However, if you don’t get much sleep or quality sleep, the healing and regenerating can’t fully take place, thus leaving you sluggish and exhausted the next day. So, it’s important to make sure we are getting enough sleep and that it’s good sleep. Here are some strategies you can take advantage of to ensure you’re getting a good night’s sleep, starting tonight!-
- Make sure your room is cool (68° is ideal)
- Sleep in a completely dark room (or use black-out shades or a sleep mask-try the Bucky 40 Blinks Sleep Mask NEW (Radial)
)
- Turn off electronics at least 1 hour prior to bedtime (or install f.lux on your computer which reduces the amount of blue light that is emitted)
- Keep all cellphones and other electronics in another room or at least two feet away from you
- Spritz Lavender Essential Oil,
on your pillow or sleep mask
- Drink Natural Vitality Natural Calm
or chamomile tea 30 minutes before bedtime (both have a calming effect)
- Do some light stretching before bed
- Practice some deep breathing exercises as you try to drift off to sleep
- Pray- this is my favorite way to drift off to sleep, praying to the Lord and casting all my cares from the day upon Him (1 Pet. 5:7)
You can check my Energize through Sleep section for additional recommendations, including supplements that can help you fall asleep and stay asleep.
