Due to the lack of sleep I have had lately, it triggered me to write this blog. When I have lost essential sleep hours I notice first and foremost, my lack of desire to talk with others. I am easily agitated and I feel as if my thought process moves about five times slower than an average day. My ability to focus is completely altered and my body feels heavier than the norm as well. It turns into one of those days where I shut off the phone, cancel plans, and do as little as possible. How much fun does that sound? NOT too much fun at all. And it also seems like a pretty scary day for operating a vehicle on the road, now doesn’t it?
From knowing first hand and because it has been researched a lot, sleep deprivation can have an effect on us emotionally and physically. It impairs our ability to think, our ability to handle stress, to maintain a healthy immune system, and to moderate emotions. Concentration levels are said to drop and brain function deteriorates. I think that covers it for me in the above paragraph.
Some helpful hints to the procrastinator when it comes time for sleep…
- Associate your bedroom with sleep and relaxation only…remember “sleep is good” Ban anything that gets your mind active.
- Try keeping track of daily activities or diet that may be affecting your sleep at night.
- Regular exercise can help you fall asleep faster and more deeply…find something that gets your heart pumping that is enjoyable…and try your best to put it into your daily activities.
- Power naps are nice (15- 30 minutes long) and no later than mid afternoon or it can interfere with your night time rest.
- A couple hours before bedtime, dim the lights, light a candle, take a warm bath, and/or listen to some relaxing music. This preparation is nice for the body to get ready for a full night’s sleep.