Sleep is probably one of the most underrated functions of our body.
People in our clinic often underestimate how a decent sleep affects your entire body. A full night’s sleep should be between 7-8hrs. Sleep is the process in which your body heals. Many people are unable to lose weight because of having high cortisol levels or low growth hormone due to not enough sleep. Here are some things you can do to catch up!
Stick to a Routine
When it comes to getting a good night’s sleep, conditioning your body to sleep at a certain time (and for a certain length of time) increases your chances of falling asleep quickly and waking up refreshed. Developing an evening ritual is also important in this regard: Set the stage for quality sleep with a warm bath, a good book or soft music.
Light and darkness
Sunlight helps regulate your circadian clock, the body’s 24-hour cycle, and also stimulates the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates your sleep cycle. On the other hand, when you’re preparing for sleep, it’s vital to limit sources of light that can make it harder to doze off. That means pulling the shades, turning off all the lights and shutting doors.
Don’t Drink, Don’t Smoke
There are countless reasons not to do either of the above, but in terms of sleep, drinking alcohol and smoking can have profound negative consequences. You may think alcohol will help you fall asleep, but it won’t keep you asleep, not after its metabolized. And nicotine is a stimulant – perfect for keeping you awake all night long.
Coping with a newborn
I know mothers have heard it time and time again but sleep and rest when your baby rests. If your baby is unsettled have a friend take your newborn for a walk while you sleep for an hour or so and recharge those batteries that can get so depleted in those early weeks. Take the phone off the hook and put a sign on the door and don’t be afraid to tell people that they can’t come visit as you are sleeping.
