Sleep is a vital part of our bodies’ rest and recovery process. However, more than 35% of Americans sleep less than the recommended 7 hours per night. There are several reasons for sleep disturbances but we can reduce the affect of many of them by creating and maintaining a sleep routine.
You can learn more about creating your own sleep routine by watching our WellnessTalk, Optimal Energy for Your Mind, presented by Dr. Bethany Tennant.
For this key Daily Deed we are going to focus on one component of a healthy sleep routine.
Maintain a consistent bed time each day.
Preparing for bed and being ready to sleep at the same time each day will help your body develop a circadian rhythm and allow hormones that help induce and maintain sleep work more effectively. As you decide on what your consistent bed time will be, keep in mind a few key considerations:
Be sure your bed time will allow for at least 7 hours of uninterrupted sleep.
Set a bed time that you can maintain consistently for the next 4 weeks.
Ideally your bed time will not be preceded by vigorous activities and that includes digestion.