Readjust Your Outlook to Rest Well
By Sandy Schroeder
Getting enough sleep has become a major issue in today’s culture. Ask anybody how they slept last night and you are apt to get a frustrated look or a thumbs down reply.
If you are having trouble sleeping and struggling to get the recommended 7 to 9 hours of sleep, you may need to rethink your outlook on life, according to Harvard Health.
Getting your head on straight with a good picture of what life’s all about may go a long way to helping you rest well.
Getting Your Head on Straight
If the day's events are still spinning through your head, you are not as apt to drift off to sleep. But relaxing and reflecting may help.
Focusing on Purpose - Sleep Science and Practice online published a study recently that found individuals who felt they had more purpose and meaning in their life experienced less sleep interruptions such as restless legs syndrome or sleep apnea.
Most of us have purpose in our lives, but reviewing that purpose to find what means the most may help us sleep better. Purpose can revolve around generating support for your family, which can be challenging at times. Doing what you can to smooth out day-to-day issues, and putting them into perspective, may help as your purpose settles into place.
Focusing on gratitude – Think about one thing that you are grateful for before you go to sleep. That positive thought may help you drift off and rest better. Over time you will have a collection of blessings to think back on.
Adjust Your Surroundings
Setting the stage for a good night's sleep by creating a serene sleeping area can help you wind down. If you can, consider parking all of your electronics, including TVs and smartphones outside of the bedroom. Substitute a good book, soft music, and a regular ritual with an established bedtime. Cut caffeine off in the early afternoon, and limit alcohol and smoking before bedtime. Use blackout drapes to control light, and an air filter to create white noise and purify the air. Make sure your mattress and pillow provide good support. Medium firm mattresses and down pillows are usually good choices.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Greenville, S.C.