Daily Wellness Suggestions
Daily Sleep:
Sleep is such an important and vital part of our lives that it deserves its own section. Sleep has an impact on every other part of our lives. Physically, mentally, and emotionally our quality of life depends on our quality of sleep. There is no one way that fits every person, find what helps you sleep and make it a priority. Below are some suggestions that will hopefully allow you to drift off to sweet dreams!
- Day 1- Good sleep starts long before your head ever hit the pillow. Speaking of your pillow, your environment, bed included, is very important for restful sleep. Prepare your room, ensure it is a dark, quiet place that is reserved for sleep only. Additionally, make sure you have a supportive bed and comfortable pillow.
- Day 2- Once you have the ideal environment, it's time to look at how you prepare for sleep each day. Many of us fall into bed at the end of the day without giving it a second thought, but with a little preparation, you can improve your sleep quality. The first is to avoid blue light (TV, Cellphone, any electronic device) at least an hour before bed.
- Day 3- Another way to prepare for sleep is to create a dedicated plan to wind down each day. Sleep is the time when our brain can work out the stress of the day, but we can ensure it is more effective if we include a period of reduced stimuli and create space to reflect during our waking hours.
- Day 4- Setting a consistent time to crawl in bed each day can help train your body to expect sleep. Much of the conventional wisdom around sleep would lead everyone to go to bed early and for some this is beneficial. But going to bed early does not guarantee a good night's sleep. Know your body and how much sleep you need, set a bedtime, and stick to it.
- Day 5- And if all else fails call in the professionals. Lack of sleep or poor sleep is a true medical concern and if it continues for an extended period, speak with a medical professional!
The way each of these sections is set up is that they can be done week after week. I hope that at the end of Wellness Week these sections will help you implement long-term change and set goals to move toward Living Well. Additionally, each of the sections and daily tips can help you set a goal for our Wellness Challenge that is now live!