Better Sleep
We did it! We saved the daylight!!!
With the exception of Arizona and Hawaii, most of us in the U.S. are feeling some effects of springing forward over the weekend. With this new time change to daylight saving time (it’s “saving” not “savings” BTW, who knew?), our internal clocks are subjected to a sudden shift, disrupting our sleep patterns.
This adjustment can lead to difficulties in falling asleep or waking up at the desired times as our bodies struggle to synchronize with the new daylight schedule.
Below are just a few of the benefits of sleep and why you’ll want to make sure to get yourself back on track for a good night of sleep ASAP.
Benefits of Sleep:
Enhanced Cognitive Function: Quality sleep improves concentration, productivity, and decision-making abilities.
Mood Regulation: A good night's sleep stabilizes mood and emotional well-being.
Physical Health: Sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy immune system, regulating hormones, and supporting overall physical health.
Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: Adequate sleep is associated with a lower risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease & diabetes.
4 Quick Tips for Better Sleep
Get Outside in the Morning
Morning light, even on cloudy days, helps to reinforce your body’s natural cycles of sleeping & waking. Just 3-5 minutes daily can start to improve sleep patterns in as little as 3 days!
Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule
Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends, helps regulate your body's internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up refreshed.
Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine
Engage in calming activities such as reading, listening to soothing music, or practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation before bed to signal to your body that it's time to wind down and prepare for sleep.
Optimize Your Sleep Environment
Ensure your bedroom is conducive to sleep by keeping it cool, dark, and quiet. A sleep mask can help block out any ambient light and a white noise machine or earplugs will block out any disruptive sounds that may interfere with your sleep.
Sleep can be tricky even without a time change and consistency is key. Resetting a healthy sleep pattern can take a few days to a few weeks.
If your sleep does not improve with any of your efforts, it may be time to seek the help of a professional. There are many additional supplements, nutrients, and lifestyle modifications that can improve the quality and quantity of your sleep.
Don’t give up! You deserve restorative rest, so you can show up as your most vital self.