09/13/2019
Overall wellness is SO much more than just about what we eat and how much we exercise - sleep, stress management, social life, overall mental health, and even genetics play a huge role. If these other factors aren't getting the attention they deserve, it can be difficult to achieve optimal health.
Sleep may actually be the single most important factor - without adequate sleep, our bodies and minds cannot function properly, and won't be able to properly recover from workouts. Not getting enough sleep has even been shown to cause increased cravings for simple sugars.
Here are some tips for getting those z's:
-exercise regularly (but not too close to bedtime)
- get outside during the day to get exposure to bright light
- reduce light from electronics (blue light) in the evening - stop watching TV/using your phone at least one hour before bed
- do not consume caffeine after 3pm
- try to sleep and wake at consistent times (even on the weekend)
- avoid alcohol before bed as it can lead to disrupted sleep patterns
- sleep in a pitch black room (black-out curtains are helpful)
- establish a bedtime routine (this will let your brain and body know that it's time for bed and can help you fall asleep more quickly)
What do you do to make sure you're getting adequate sleep?
