Serene Sleep for a Thriving Existence

Do you get a good 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night? Studies say a huge percentage of us don’t. Yet, almost nothing is more beneficial to good health than a good night’s sleep.  Here is a list of just some of the amazing things your body does when you sleep:

• heal and repair itself.

• reduce stress and risk of depression.

• improve memory and help you think more clearly.

• lower your risk for serious health problems, like diabetes and heart disease.

• support immune health, so you get sick less often.

• help you maintain a healthy weight.

So, if we clearly understand we want and need good sleep, what are some simple steps we can take to help our body get into a healthy sleep cycle? Like so many things, the more you know, the better you do, and you can find excellent tips for improving your routines in books such as Sleep Better by Nicola Erbacci.

One concept light cycling, or the nurturing of your internal clock in relation to the cycle of light in a typical day is something easy you can begin right away.

1. Set your alarm to wake at the same time every day – even on your days off.

2. Upon waking, turn on the lights and open the shades or even better head outside and enjoy the sunshine.

3. Maintain the same bedtime each day. If necessary, set a timer to remind you to begin your nighttime routine.

4. Dim lights and turn off screens at least 1 hour before bed. In the evening, aim for warm, low-watt light only. 

5. Use room darkening shades to keep your bedroom dark.

Finally, I am happy to share my new favorite pre-bedtime beverage: Shaklee’s Rest and Rewind.  With magnesium, natural lemon balm, and clinically tested 5-HTP it is a healthy treat that also helps encourage a fabulous night of healthy sleep.

Wishing you tranquil nights and excellent health!