Tag Archives: sleep

Are You Getting Enough Sleep?

07 Tuesday Aug 2012

Posted by in General, Healthy Inspirations

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MAUI Sunset 

Posted by Jennifer (the RD) on August 6, 2012

A few weeks ago, I took a required online health assessment through my employer.  My area of improvement was my consistent lack of sleep.  According to Harvard’s Women’s Health Watch, 75% of us have disrupted or inadequate sleep at least a few nights a week.  Although the number varies from person to person, on average, most people require 8 hours of sleep per night.    Why is this a problem?  Lack of sleep can lead to the following (and these are just a few):

  • Increased risk for high blood pressure
  • Increased risk for cardiovascular disease
  • Increased risk for obesity
  • Mood disruption
  • Decreased immune function

I just came back from a vacation in Maui and feel wonderful.  I actually got my 8 hours of sleep every night!  It was amazing how much better I felt.  Being in a truly stress free environment really helped me catch up on my sleep, but here are some other ways to increase the amount of hours of sleep daily

  • Decrease the stress in your life at work and at home (I know, easier said than done….)
  • Decrease alcohol intake
  • Decrease caffeine intake, especially before you go to bed
  • Improve environmental conditions (temperature, pillows, mattress, etc.)

Anyone else have any ideas?

 ♥ ♥

Sleep Tight

13 Friday Apr 2012

Posted by in General, Healthy Inspirations

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Posted by Jennifer (the student) on April 13, 2012

 

Source: thelovelycompass.tumblr.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

When we do not get enough sleep, we know that the next day we will pay the price for it. But habitually sleeping 6 or less hours can raise the risk of many health problems such as:

  • Diabetes
  • Heart Disease
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Weight Gain

Benefits of a Good Nights Sleep

  • Better Energy Levels
  • Improved Mood
  • Improved Concentration
  • Better Skin
  • Stronger Immune System
  • Fewer Colds and Flu
  • Less Aches and Pains
  • Increased Muscle Growth and Repair

What Can Disturb Sleep

  • Caffeine
  • Alcohol
  • Nicotine
  • Loud Noises
  • Temperature: too Hot or too Cold

What Promotes Sleep

  • Regular bedtime
  • Reading before bed
  • Yoga promotes relaxation
  • Regular aerobic exercise
  • Cut down on beverages late in the day
  • Don’t eat a big meal before bedtime and don’t go to bed hungry
  • For some a light snack before bedtime may be helpful like a banana, yogurt or a small bowl of whole-wheat cereal that is low in sugar

Getting enough sleep effects you’re over all health. Develop regular bedtime habits to help yourself get the best sleep you can. Sleep tight!

♥ ♥