Why Sleep Is Important And How To Get Better Sleep By Laura Warren Founder Of FitMuma
Sleep is fundamental to a happy and healthy mind and body. A lot of people neglect it because they are simply too busy to fit in enough hours of sleep. On the other hand they may see it as important, but simply struggle to get enough ‘quality sleep.’ I am hoping that this blog will remind you of the importance of sleep so that you can try and prioritise it a little more.
Here are so reminders of why it is important to try and work on getting improved sleep:
Lack of sleep is connected to increased inflammation. This inflammation can be shown as digestive pain or muscle and joint pain.
Lack of sleep makes you grumpy, tired, snappy, emotional . This can then lead you to ‘parent guilt.’ You know that feeling right? That feeling where you feel horrible for being snappy with your child when really they didn’t do anything warranting a stroppy you.
The right amount of sleep will improve your immune system. Even a small loss of sleep has been shown to impair immune function. I am not sure about you, but as a singe parent I feel that I don’t have enough time to feel ‘poorly’. That reason alone motives me to not switch the next Netflix episode on. In fact, I was once told that if you wouldn’t get up an hour early to do what you’re about to do, do not stay up to do it.
Good sleep can improve concentration, problem solving, memory performance, creativity and productivity.
What would your life look or feel like if you were to have more sleep?
So you most probably already know why you need more sleep in your life, but I want you to take a second to think how your life could be improved if you were to concentrate on improving your sleep?
Why not write some affirmations and place them somewhere for you to remind yourself to sleep better. For example:
I am a such less snappy parent now I sleep more
I get so much more work done now I am sleeping better
I have more energy to play with my children now that I have good quality sleep
So what can you do to get better sleep?
1. Turn off electronics an hour before bed
2. Read a book (not on a device)
Make sure the content relaxes you.
3. Practice journalling
It makes you think more positively so steers your mind away from the not so good thoughts that can keep you awake.
4. Try aromatherapy oils
They aid in relaxation, so try lavender or damask
5. Listen to soothing music to help relaxation
6. Practice yoga, meditation and mindfulness
All of this aims to relax the breathing, mind, and body. It also aims to destress you and make the mind happier. Even a few minutes of this can make a difference
7. Keep to a sleeping schedule
So try and get to sleep and wake up the same time every day
8. Start to unwind at least 30 minutes before bed
9. Lowering the room temperature can also help
You can do this by making sure your duvet is not too thick. Can the window be opened? Can you have a shower to cool down before bed? Do not make it too cold though as it make shock you and actually wake you up!
10. Get Natural sunlight as soon in the day as possible
As this will help with your body clock which is important for sleep. Why not eat breakfast outside or have a few sips of your morning cuppa in the garden?
11. If you have a menstrual cycle
You may notice that your core body temperate rises around and just after ovulation. By knowing this, you can prepare yourself in advance to keep the room cool.
12. Drinks and sugar
Watch what time you are drinking caffeinated drinks or sugary foods as this may make your energy peak at bedtime and during the night.
13. Leave your work out of your bedroom
We do not want anything in there that is going to get your mind working when it should be relaxing, Similarly, keep your room clutter free.
14. The colours and feel
What colours do you have in your room? Are they relaxing or energising? Are they colours that help sleep?
16. Free up your brain space
Always keep paper and pen at the side of your bed. I use it to jot anything down that I may need to remember for tomorrow. This will help my mind switch off.
17. Be Mindful of the content of your reading/TV material before bed
What are you reading and watching before bed? Is it triggering of any stressful or anxious thoughts that could keep you from falling asleep?
Find out more about Laura Warren and FitMuma at https://www.fitmuma.uk/