Are You Feeling Well-Rested?

Nodding off? Do you feel tired all the time? If so, you probably need to make sleep a bigger priority.

Even though it’s seen as a badge of honor to operate on less sleep, I’m here to remind you that it’s okay to go to bed early, nap when you need to, and wake up after 8 AM.

Just because there are some people out there who can operate on 5 or 6 hours of sleep doesn’t mean that your body is able to do the same thing. While it’s true that the average amount of sleep we need is 7-9 hours, some of us need as many as 10 hours each night.

Being sleep deprived is disruptive to both our mental and physical health and has been linked to issues ranging from a weakened immune system to anxiety and depression. This is because sleep allows our bodies to repair themselves and our brain to consolidate our memories and process information.

If you’re having trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or staying on a regular sleep schedule, experiment with creating a nighttime routine. This means coordinating a series of activities, tasks, or rituals that help cue your body to prepare for sleep. Here
are a few ideas:

• Switch overhead lights to soft ambient lighting after sunset.
• Invest in a pair of blue-light-blocking glasses to help with eye strain if you enjoy using screens at nighttime.
• Start a simple skin-care routine.
• Prepare a special tea or snack to help you relax.
• Start reading before bedtime.
• Try a short yoga routine or some stretches to wind down.
• Redecorate and de-clutter your bedroom to make it more comfortable and calming.
• Take herbal supplements intended either to help you sleep, relax your body or support your nervous system.
• Diffuse essential oils next to your bed that are also intended to help you sleep, relax your body, or support your nervous system.

What does your bedtime routine look like? Is there room for improvement?

I'm always here to help email me at ContactToni@drToniCamacho.com if you have any questions or issues with sleep. And remember click here to check out my wonderful herbal supplements and essential oils that will guarantee a better night sleep.

Happy Monday! And see you next week,
​Toni