Better Sleep for a Better Life

If you’re like me, sometimes you need a little caffeine boost in the mornings to get your day going. I am a firm believer in getting enough sleep each night, and I can definitely tell a difference on the days I don’t get my 7 – 8 hours in. According to sleep experts, 70 percent of Americans do not get the recommended seven to eight hours of sleep each night. 

Lack of sleep can affect everything from your mood, your work productivity, your energy level, your mental focus and even your ability to burn fat and control your appetite. Limited sleep affects every aspect of your life, especially your job performance. The Better Sleep Council conducted a survey in which respondents reported sleep deprivation impaired their quality and accuracy of work (31%), clear thinking or judgment (31%) and memory of important details (30%). 39% of those surveyed receive six hours or less of sleep per night, with 16% receiving less than five hours of sleep. The survey also revealed that 65% of Americans are losing sleep due to stress, 32% are losing sleep at least one night a week, and 16% experienced stress-induced insomnia.

Getting enough sleep can significantly impact your quality of life. It is recommended that you get at least 7-9 hours of sleep each night. If you are not getting the recommended amount of sleep or experiencing sleepless nights, begin taking steps to make this important lifestyle change. Try some of these better sleep tips:

• Plan your day so you allow for enough sleep time. How early do you need to get to bed to get your 7-9 in? What adjustments do you need to start making to your day to achieve this?
•  Keep a consistent sleep schedule. Try to keep bedtime and the time you wake up the same each day. 
•  Keep work, television and other distracting things out of your bedroom or at least limit at bedtime.
•  Avoid nicotine, alcohol or caffeine close to bedtime.
•  Exercise regularly. (**I highly recommend this one. It works wonders.)
•  Try relaxation techniques like a hot bath, reading, or deep breathing at night.
•  Assess your mattress and pillow to ensure good support and comfort. 

Utilizing even a few of these tips can work wonders for your sleep patterns, which will in turn boost your energy and focus each day. 

Source