Choosing better sleep habits

by Beth McHugh | More from this Blogger

19 Jul 2006 05:47 PM

Getting a sound night's sleep is crucial to mental and physical health. Studies show that even one night of broken or poor sleep lowers our IQ by up to 5 points. If you think that you "just can't think straight" after a restless night in bed, you are right!

Lack of sleep also exacerbates pre-existed emotional problems such as anxiety, mood disorders, and depression. So it's important to regularly get those eight hours of regenerative peace in. Here are some tips on inviting Mr. Sandman to call on you.

1. Heavy meals encourage poor digestion as the body is called upon to focus on the energy-consuming act of digestion, which keeps the body unnecessarily alert and thus makes sleep more elusive. Four course meals that linger on into the night are no-nos. Try to complete your evening meal by 8pm.

2. A light snack an hour before bedtime which includes carbohydrate and tryptophan-rich foods can improve sleep quality. An example would be a low-fat cracker with cheese and a glass of milk. Warm milk is even more effective that cold milk as heating releases sleep-promoting chemicals. If you don't like the taste of warm milk there are many delicious products available to add to milk. If you are prone to chronic insomnia do not choose one rich in caffeine, such as coffee or chocolate.

3. Avoid overstimulating T.V. shows or DVDs that keep you on the edge of your seat. Watching violent crime shows, disturbing documentaries, and horror movies late into the evening will leave you with a sea of stress hormones to deal with in the bedroom. Watch these shows earlier in the day when they will have no effect on your sleep patterns.

4. Massage is an excellent stress-reducer and sleep-inducer. Muscle tension is reduced and the rhythmic movements of massage are both comforting and relaxing. Having a massage once a week will significantly reduce your stress levels which in turn will promote longer, deeper sleep. If you cannot access a masseur or persuade a family member to give you a massage, give yourself one!

Although not quite as relaxing as the real thing, you can still loosen tight muscles and knots throughout your body. Try rubbing your neck and shoulders, the tops of your thighs, the sides of your ribs, and the solar plexus area just beneath your breastbone. Lastly, massage your feet. Ten minutes on each foot while lying in bed will provide considerable relaxation to the whole body.

Contact Beth McHugh for further information or assistance regarding this issue.

Learn more about Beth McHugh

Beth McHugh began her career as a geologist and worked both in industry and as a university researcher.

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Kay M. (300) 26 Jul 2006 08:41 AM

Great information! I have a friend who struggles with sleep issues. I did a little research myself and found some fascinating information. She was very interested in Holistic approaches to sleep. I found a healthy alternative to medication called Melatonin. It has worked quite well for my friend. She doesn't take it nightly, however, when she does need something to help her sleep it has been very effective.