One Week to Better Sleep

Prioritizing sleep has always been a difficult task for me while balancing a career and a personal life. I’m not alone. According to the National Sleep Foundation, one in three people suffer from some form of insomnia, and more than half of Americans lose sleep due to stress or anxiety. You and your clients could also probably benefit from a sleep refresher. This week the National Sleep Foundation is celebrating its annual Sleep Awareness Week. It focuses on sleep health, encouraging everyone to prioritize sleep to improve their overall health and wellbeing.

Here’s what the National Sleep Foundation suggests to improve your sleep habits.

  • Day 1: Start the week by making time for the sleep your mind and body needs. Most adults need 7 to 9 hours to function properly.
  • Day 2: Leave a couple of hours between eating and going to bed because it will help you reap the maximum benefits of a good night’s sleep.
  • Day 3: Power down to recharge. Blue light from screens can disrupt your circadian rhythm and affect your ability to sleep, so turn off your mobile devices before you head to bed.
  • Day 4: Make your bedroom all about sleep. A comfortable mattress, pillow, and bedding will help you get a good night’s sleep. Also, keep your room dark and use cool paint colors for the walls.
  • Day 5: Create a bedtime ritual. Make deep breathing, stretches, and other relaxing exercises part of your pre-slumber ritual to wind down and help get your mind ready for sleep.
  • Day 6: Put your troubles aside and drift away. Keep a piece of paper next to your bed and write down any worries of the day before putting your head down to sleep. You’ll sleep better.
  • Day 7: Sleep is important for everything as it helps you think more clearly, decrease stress, anxiety, depression, and irritability, leaving you feeling more energetic and productive. Prioritize your sleep and adjust your routines in advance of Daylight Savings Time.