Sleep for Stress Relief

According to studies most adults should have at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep a night.  If you're having a hard time getting to that goal, here are a couple of ways to reduce stress and get more shut eye.

Stress is the major cause of sleepless nights.  When you look at a baby or a toddler as they sleep do you sometimes think, “I wish I could sleep so peacefully.”  Stress wreaks havoc on every part of our life.  It not only interrupts our sleeping patterns but also leaves us feeling tired all the time, unable to perform the easiest tasks, grumpy and lethargic.

Exercise, a proper diet and letting go of the problems of the day can solve this problem.  Even 20 minutes of exercise, preferably in the morning, can help us sleep better. If you have a hard time letting go of the day's stresses, try writing them down on a piece of paper and throwing it in the trash before you retire.

Sleep is essential in relaxing the body, allowing our immune system to work at its best, and repairing our muscles in preparation for the next day.  Therefore, before preparing for bed try meditation, engage in mild stretching exercises, drink a cup of chamomile tea or play some soothing music. 

It is recommended to go to bed when you are thoroughly tired, otherwise you’ll toss and turn.  Ensure you have a comfortable mattress and pillow.  Keep the lights, radio and TV off late at night.  It is also recommended not to eat anything after 8 PM, unless it's a snack that helps you sleep, like a bit of turkey or glass of milk.  Any type of snack containing sugar will delay the sleeping process.  Obviously caffeine interferes with sleep, what many don't realize is that it stays in your body for 24 hours, so if you're feeling the jitters, you may need to cut it out entirely.

Most importantly clear your mind of any thoughts of the day or the list of things you have to do tomorrow.  Tomorrow will take care of itself.