6 Tips to ZZZZZZ

Have you been more forgetful than usual or experiencing brain fog? Of course, your first stop should be your doctor. However, try to analyze your sleeping patterns and the quality of your sleep. Sleep deprivation might be the culprit.

Some people could function on less than 8 hours of sleep but most need at least 7 hours. If the lack of sleep goes on for an extended period it could impact mental clarity and even a person’s mood.

Researches have been made about the correlation between sleep and memory or sleep and well-being for that matter. Even the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and its partners work to raise awareness of the importance of sleep in health and safety.

Sleep is the time the body needs to rejuvenate, recharge and rebuild. The dictionary describes sleep as “a condition of the body and mind such as that which typically recurs for several hours every night, in which the nervous system is relatively inactive, the eyes closed, the postural muscles relaxed, and consciousness practically suspended”. In short, proper sleep is pure bliss. Compare that to the havoc that sleep deprivation can potentially wreak.

Did you know that nap bars and cafes exist around the world? Of course, finding a comfy and quiet nook in one’s own home is preferable. It is also free.

TIPS:

o Stick to a routine for bedtime and waking up.

o Keep mobile devices out of the bedroom.

o Try to take a power snooze during the day. 15-20 minutes could make a difference. A longer siesta would be so restorative but alas, this is a luxury that not everyone can have.

o Listen to your body. Stop if it’s screaming for rest.

o A few drops of therapeutic grade lavender essential oil by your bedside promotes restful sleep.

o Heat lotion on your legs and the sole of the feet before bed can help you sleep better.