(Image via Pinterest)
There are few things as equally rewarding to the mind, body, and soul as a full night of uninterrupted good ol' sleep. And yet, every night, it feels like it's me against the world when it comes to achieving a decent amount of consecutive hours of inactive rest. And while we'll never be able to control barking dogs and car alarms, there is a slew of techniques to achieving a better night's rest. This week, I am super excited to have partnered up with The Better Sleep Council to take part in their week-long sleep challenge. The challenge that I've accepted required removing my alarm clock from eyesight and placing my cell phone out of arms reach. I have a bad habit of waking up and peeking at the clock, which without fail, always triggers a tiny “oh my gosh, I have to wake up in 3 hours” panic attack. Not to mention the fact that 2am Pinterest browsing has basically taken the place of counting sheep. Removing these will not be easy, but I'm up for the challenge. Goodbye dream kitchen, dream office, and dream vacation, and hello sheep, sheep, and... better sleep. Getting the proper amount of sleep can have a serious effect on your overall health and well-being. My husband and I have a diabetic dog who requires breakfast and an insulin shot very early in morning, so sleeping in is never an option. Going to sleep at the same time every night is imperative, because every hour I stay awake is an hour of sleep I'm losing. Below are some useful tips to getting more sleep, just in time to help you transition into Daylight Savings Time.
- Gradually transition with Daylight Savings by going to bed 15 minutes early in the days leading up.
- Commit to 7-8 hours of sleep each and every night.
- Keep regular sleep hours by practicing a consistent sleep and wake schedule – even on the weekends.
- Exercise during the day. Moderate exercise can help you sleep better.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed to avoid sleep interference.
- Eat light at night, finishing at least 2-3 hours before bed.
- Create a relaxing bedtime ritual. (reading a book, soothing music, or a hot bath)
Stop by The Better Sleep Council's website for some fabulous tips and tricks for surviving the time change here! Follow along on Twitter with #SpringToBed for updates on how my challenge is going!
This post was sponsored by The Better Sleep Council.