IN Monroeville Winter 2017 | Page 26

HEALTH & WELLNESS S P E C I AL S E C T I O N • Keep electronics out or off. Electronics produce a blue light that sends a signal to your brain to stop the release of melatonin, making it harder to fall asleep. On top of wanting to text with friends or check social media, children and teens will give any excuse to stay awake. Electronic devices are best left in the dark at bedtime. BAD HAIR DAYS? SLEEP YOUR WAY TO A HEALTHIER YOU By now, you’ve most likely heard the news on the numerous benefits of sleep on overall health. From improving brain function to assisting in weight loss, getting the recommended hours of sleep fit for your age is essential to staying healthy. The message is loud and clear to adults, who still fight sleep to watch late-night television or finish one more chapter of a good book. You may