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Sleep is something so crucial to our health. So many of us struggle to wake up rested and sometimes it can be a simple change that is all you need to get the sleep you desire. Join me as I share these 10 simple Tips for Better sleep that anyone can put into practice and reap the benefits!
Why Better Sleep is Important for Your Health
Let’s have a little heart-to-heart about the real MVP in our lives: SLEEP. You know, that elusive unicorn that seems to escape us more often than not. But seriously, it’s not just a luxury; it’s a crucial aspect to our overall health. That’s why today we are going to share our best tips for better sleep.
I used to think burning the midnight oil made me a supermom, but turns out, a well-rested mom is the true superhero. Sleep is like a magical potion that recharges our patience, resets our mood, and gives us the strength to tackle the typical daily mom challenges (think diaper changes and toddler negotiations). Better sleep isn’t just about how we feel on the outside, it really is about how well our body is performing on the inside.
Ever caught yourself wondering why a lack of sleep seems to be a one-way ticket to the sniffles and sneezes? Well, turns out, it’s not just a coincidence. Your immune system thrives on quality sleep to bring its A-game. It’s not just about warding off bugs either – insufficient sleep can also throw your adrenal glands off balance and mess with your stress-handling mojo. So, the next time you’re tempted to burn the midnight oil, remember: a solid night’s sleep is your immune system’s secret weapon and your stress-busting sidekick. Prioritize those Zzz’s for a healthier, happier you!
Here are 10 Quick Tips to Help you get Better Sleep
When you are focusing on improving your sleep quality, you can take each of these tips for better sleep and work on them one by one. Everyone is an individual, so try each tip and see which ones you like best!
Make the Room Darker
As someone who has struggled with sleep for many years… one thing that bothers me is when the room is too bright. I just can’t fall asleep! I have been using a face mask for the past 15 years or so to block out all the light, but you could start with darker shades in your room.
Don’t work in bed
This is something that I’m bad about… not with a computer, but with my phone. It probably started when I was nursing my daughter multiples times a night and I would hop on my phone while I was nursing her. I got into the habit of checking my phone before turning out the lights and may end up reading on it for an hour before I fall asleep.
This type of light stimulation can actually alter your ability to fall asleep. If at all possible go to bed when you are ready for sleep and leave your phone on your bedside table and not in your hand.
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Use essential oils
Did you know that essential oils can help you relax and fall asleep at night?
I have a Calming Blend that I use and love, and I also use Lavender alone. If you haven’t used them before, they are so easy! You just put 1-3 drops into a diffuser in your bedroom and it will do all the work as you breathe in the oils and fall asleep.
Reduce Your Stress Level
Sounds simple right?
Stress is one of the top reasons people have trouble falling asleep and staying asleep. Obviously prayer, meditation and similar practices are very helpful, but I find a good supplement can be a lifesaver!
Use a Sound Machine
Isn’t that for babies?
Well, it is for a good reason! For us, we always have a fan on, but you can also download sleep sounds on your phone for free. If I was trying to sleep in a hotel or crowded house with lots of sounds I was having trouble blocking out, I would turn on the sound machine on my phone and it would help me go to sleep.
This model has multiple sound options (waves, nature, white noise, etc) and is the best value I’ve found for one!
Use Ear Plugs
Okay, so the opposite of sound?
Some people may do better with wearing ear plugs. My husband doesn’t snore very often, but when he does – I can’t sleep at all!! I started using ear plugs when he would stay up later than me reading books in bed and the sound of the pages turning would keep me up (Seriously… I am such a light sleeper!)
This brand is reasonably priced and works like a charm!
Don’t drink caffeine after lunch
You may be like me and a little sensitive to caffeine. If I drink it too late there is no hope of me going to sleep! Thankfully, there are pretty easy ways to limit caffeine after lunch.
I like drinking caffeine free drinks like Zevia, or a decaffeinated tea (I love this one!) or even just water!
Go to bed Earlier
Sounds weird right?
But if you are overly tired, you may have more difficulty falling asleep. I think I read that 10 PM is a great time to set as your bedtime so you can go to sleep and feel rested.
In reality, I usually go to bed closer to 11:30 just because I tend to get a lot of work done once the kiddos are asleep. As a guideline, maybe try to go to bed just 15 minutes earlier and see how you feel.
Get into a Routine
Are you going to bed and waking up at the same time every day?
If you aren’t, try to get your body on a routine that you can follow every day. When your body can predict when it should be alseep or awake, you will get better sleep and feel more rested.
Try Magnesium
Did you know that having trouble going to sleep could be a sign that you are low in magnesium?
I learned this when I was pregnant and had to do weekly epsom salt baths, rub magnesium oil on my legs, and supplement too. There are easy ways to up your magnesium.