how much sleep should you be getting?
You can easily “Google it” and you’ll probably find that most studies say you should have anywhere between 6 and 8 hours of sleep each night. Putting a number on the amount of sleep you get each night could cause you stress, however, and that’s the last thing we want when we are talking about sleep. It’s important to listen to your body. If you are feeling well rested then you are probably getting enough and the number doesn’t matter. If you are feeling tired then you may not be getting enough sleep and you may need to make an adjustment. Keep in mind that being tired all of the time could also be a symptom of a medical condition. If you are getting 7 – 8 hours per night and still feeling tired you should discuss that with your doctor.
some things to try if you are having trouble sleeping
Read before nodding off
Reading fiction may help you relax your mind by taking you away from your day to day tasks. Allowing yourself to be transported into the lives and surroundings of a book may help your eyes feel heavy so you can put the book down and take advantage of the sleepy feeling.
Write it down
There are times that you just can’t “turn-off” your mind. In these cases you may find it hard to fall asleep, or get back to sleep, if the thoughts won’t quiet down. It may be a grocery list, a to-do list, or an idea you want to remember. If this happens try writing it all down with pen on paper releasing the thoughts from your head.
Take a hot bath
A nice soothing bath, with some bath salts with lavender, can help you relax and hopefully make nodding off much easier. We live in a fast-paced world so taking some time for ourselves is never a bad. Helping you fall asleep and taking time for yourself is killing two birds with one stone.
Naps are a good thing
When your eyes are feeling heavy, take a quick nap if you can. A 20 – 25 minute nap is just the right amount of time to feel refreshed but not groggy. Set an alarm, close your eyes and relax with the hopes of nodding off. Those who observe siestas have the right idea. I wish it was an American tradition.
Getting enough shut-eye each night is important for health. Find what works for you and, as always, listen to your body! Sleep is an important part of being healthy BEFORE you NEED to be healthy!