Sunday Story…The last 3 (sleep!)

Okay, the last 3 things that complete our discussion of living longer better are about your mental health. It’s no good to be fit and eat right if we feel like something the cat brought in, our relationships are in the tank and we can’t sleep.

Let’s start with sleep. Many of us got the message that we didn’t need to sleep…4 hours is plenty! Less sleep results in more time for work, right? Wrong!!! Inadequate sleep is a death knell for a healthy fit lifestyle. When we sleep our body repairs itself. When we sleep our mind rejuvenates and finds new pathways of creativity. When we sleep, we allow our entire being to find a new set point.

So how do we sleep better? First, establish a bedtime “ritual”. Do the same things every night on your way to bed…take your vitamins, and brush your teeth. Then get in bed to sleep. Second, do this at the same time every night. Third, wake up at the same time every morning. Here are some more tips and tricks…Sleep in a completely dark room, try to sleep in a room about 68 degrees (if you are cold get a blanket), turn off all devices at least 30 minutes before bed, and limit alcohol consumption.

I highly recommend “Lights Out: Sleep, Sugar, and Survival ” by T.S. Wiley. This book lays out the science of sleep. I found it fascinating.

Sleep well! Sleep more!

 

John Mariotti

www.crossfitodyssey.com

www.sunday-stories.blogspot.com