Sleep Is As Important As You Make It
Keep cell phones and electronic devices out of the bedroom at night.
Avoid eating at least two hours prior to getting into bed.
Reduce alcohol intake. Though alcohol may help you fall asleep, it typically disrupts
REM sleep and increases wakeful periods.
Limit caffeine intake after lunch.
Don’t smoke (there are so many reasons for this…) but if you do, avoid smoking
three hours before bed.
Avoid napping during the day. Naps can feel great but when taken, especially in the
afternoon, may disrupt your ability to sleep at night.
Don’t watch the late news or other disturbing shows prior to getting into bed.
Our brains usually process the most recent events while we sleep. It is best to
avoid stressful topics for this reason.
Concentrate on relaxation techniques the hour prior to getting into bed. A
warm bath and aromatherapy with lavender have been shown to help individuals
fall asleep. Yoga before bed can also improve sleep cycles. Check out Yoga Journal’s
15 Poses to Help You Sleep Better.
If you do wake in the middle of the
night, try some of the following techniques to help you fall back asleep:
to your feet, progressively contract and
relax muscles as you breathe in deeply
and exhale completely.
Starting from your head and working down
Breathe in for a count
of 5, hold your breath for a count of 3,
PROGRESSIVE MUSCLE RELAXATION:
96
PEACHYTHEMAGAZINE.COM
DEEP BREATHING: