Sunday, September 30, 2007

GET SOME SLEEP


Want to improve your life in many different ways? Well, get some sleep! Actually, why we (and practically all other creatures) sleep remains a mystery that science still hasn't been able to solve. But what isn't mysterious is that we need sleep to function well both mentally and physically.

I'm sure you know that feeling when you have to face the day having slept poorly or for too few hours. You feel groggy, can't think straight, and your reflexes are slow. You feel cranky and out of sorts. But if you get into the habit of not getting enough sleep, it has a bad effect on your immune system and your mental health as well. Going for long periods without enough sleep can lead to bad moods, anger, and depression.

That's because when you sleep, your body is renewing itself, your muscle tissue is rebuilt and restored, growth hormone is secreted, and your mental energy is restored. Studies have recently found that sleeping plays a key role in solidifying learning and memory.

I know that sometimes it can be difficult to get to sleep, so here are a few tips I've collected. What really helps is to have a relaxing bedtime routine. Try to establish a set time for going to bed and for waking up, and stick to it as much as possible, even on the weekends. This will help set your body's clock for sleep. A little light exercise, but not too close to bedtime, can help you unwind.

Be sure to keep your bedroom cool, quiet, and dark. And use the bedroom only for sleeping – don't put a desk in there, for example. A warm cup of milk or relaxing herbal tea like chamomile can help. (Be sure to avoid caffeine and alcohol.) Playing soothing music can also help you stifle a "chattering mind" and signal relaxation.
– Rochelle Gordon

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