Tips and Tools for Balance

Sleep Like a Baby…

Whoever thought the phrase “sleep like a baby” sounded like a good night’s rest has clearly never actually had a baby. I sleep more like a baby now than I ever have. I’m up several times a night, usually have to use the restroom more than once, and wake up feeling tired and restless. Sleep is a fundamental biological necessity, far beyond mere rest, that is vital for maintaining comprehensive physical and mental health by supporting numerous critical bodily functions. Adequate, quality sleep is essential for cognitive functions like memory consolidation, problem-solving, creativity, and attention, while also regulating mood and helping to reduce the risk of mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. Physically, sleep allows the body to repair cells, restore energy, release vital hormones for growth, and critically, strengthen the immune system to fight off infections and disease. Furthermore, consistent sleep helps regulate blood sugar levels and maintain healthy blood pressure, as chronic deprivation is linked to an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Ultimately, prioritizing 7-9 hours of sleep nightly is an actionable and essential step toward long-term well-being, enhancing both daily performance and overall quality of life. There are many things you can do to improve your quality of sleep and get a much needed good night of rest. Try turning off devices at least 30 minutes before bed. Instead, use this time to meditate and be grateful for what the day brought you. Make sure to turn down the temperature in your home a few degrees about an hour before bedtime. A decrease in temperature is a natural cue for your body that it’s time to start winding down. Also, stop eating 3-4 hours before sleep. Fasting isn’t just good for losing those unwanted pounds. It’s also an excellent sleep aid. Lastly, turn out the lights. A completely dark room lets your body know it’s night time. If you’re still experiencing insomnia, head over to my herbal remedies and find a valerian tincture that can assist in falling asleep and staying asleep.