SleepandStressRelief-CommonHealth.docVIP

Sleep and Stress Relief are Essential for Health /sleep-and-stress-relief.html Deep rest, sleep and stress relief go hand in hand. Ever notice how the day seems to go better when you’ve gotten enough sleep the night before? When we get enough sleep, even if things don’t happen exactly as planned, we take it in stride more easily. Getting enough sleep is such a blessing. Research shows sleep essential for stress reduction and well-being: Sleep deprivation impairs the functioning of human cognitive and motor abilities. It also has a powerful influence on mood. Problems with sleeping are often associated with symptoms of depression and a feeling of diminished health. Insomnia can mean increased emotional distress, daytime fatigue and diminished productivity. Studies also suggest a sleep deficit may put the body into a state of high alert, increasing the production of stress hormones and driving up blood pressure. Tips to enhance sleep and stress relief: Go to bed at the same time every night. Your body will then get into the habit of winding down in the evening. Try to be in bed and asleep before 10pm. Some experts say the sleep you get before midnight is especially valuable for rejuvenation. That way you are likely to be in deep sleep between midnight and 3 am when your body can optimally take advantage of human growth hormone. Let yourself relax in the evening. It’s a great time to share with family members. Try to avoid computer work or TV past 8pm. The bright light from computer screens and TVs will send a message to your body’s time clock which says stay awake. Get a comfortable mattress made of natural materials which will not outgas. Keep your bedroom a comfortable temperature. Get a little space heater for the winter if necessary. Use clutter control. Eliminate clutter and distractions from your bedroom so that it feels more peaceful. Keep the bedroom very dark at night. This may mean getting lined curtains, or eliminating extraneous equipment with ad