From digital distractions to caffeine overload to stratospheric stress, it’s no wonder so many people are unable to get the rest they need.
Why Adequate Sleep Is Vital
While you may not think it’s a big deal to skimp on sleep, your health may tell you otherwise. Sleep is critical for mental and physical well-being. When you don’t get the recommended 7-9 (for adults) hours of sleep each night, you may experience the following:
- Mental distress
- Poor cognitive function
- Difficulty concentrating
- Heart disease
- Obesity
Everyone needs different amounts of sleep at various stages of life. So kids, for example, will require more sleep each night.
Adopt Good Sleep Hygiene Habits
One of the best ways to ensure you get the proper rest your body needs nightly is to adopt sleep hygiene habits. Here are some tips:
Power it down. Whether we’re checking email, texting a friend or watching our favorite shows, our digital devices can wreak havoc on our sleep. That’s in part because blue light can increase our alertness—good during the day, but bad before bed. We recommend putting our devices down or moving away from them at least an hour before bedtime.
Maintain a routine. Aim to go to bed at the same time each night and try to get up the same time each day. Doing so will help set your body’s internal clock and enhance the quality of your sleep.
So no to that late-in-the-day jolt of java. While it may be tempting to have that late-afternoon latte to get through your workday or pop open an early evening energy drink, doing so could set yourself up for a sleepless night. Try to refrain from consuming caffeine 4-6 hours before bed.
The Role of Chiropractic Care
You may wonder how chiropractic care can promote better sleep. Getting your spine checked and adjusted is one of the best things to help promote sound sleep. Our nervous system controls every cell, tissue and organ in our body. If we have interference in our nervous system, we can’t function as well during the day, and we can’t rest as well at night. Chiropractic removes that interference, allowing the body to relax, which fosters good sleep.
For more sleep-promoting SOS, Dr. Goffe can also provide some nutrition and herbal solutions. Contact us today to book an appointment!