Go to Sleep!

Biologically we are designed to wake and sleep by the sun and moon cycles. We followed our natural Circadian Rhythm. Before there was electricity, we could only work when there was sunlight. Candles were costly and saved for special occasions.  The advent of electricity, extended and changed the work timeline but it did not allow for our need to rest.

No one needs to sleep more than a pregnant or nursing mom.  Our bodies use sleep as a way to rest and repair the body repair from birth, prepare breast milk,  and daily functions.  Healthy sleepers experience healthy REM cycles (Rapid Eye Movement) which involve dreaming. In REM sleep your body is able to repair and recharge itself.  The more sleep cycles your body has the more opportunities your body has to recharge.  For most people that means going to bed earlier and following your  Circadian Rhythm.

Steps to facilitate following your natural Circadian Rhythm

• Go to bed before 11 pm and gain 7+ hours of sleep each night
• Consider an afternoon nap to increase energy and improve your focus
• Create a bedroom sanctuary: a quality mattress and bedding and a good pillow
• Turn off all electronics 30 minutes prior to sleep
• Avoid foods and fluids, like caffeine, that can interfere with healthy sleep patterns
• Never argue before bed, instead keep the bedroom as a sanctuary
• Take an Epsom salt bath 30 minutes prior to sleep or a shower if you wake during the night
• Consider healthy supplements such as rescue sleep, magnesium glycinate, and lavender or Roman Chamomile oil diffused in the bedroom or mixed with Epsom salts for a rest inducing bath.