Stress and Sleep: Tips for Getting a Good Night's Sleep

Sleep is far more valuable to our health than we realize. However, getting a good night's sleep under stress is a challenge experienced by many people. Tossing and turning in bed coupled by racing thoughts can be both frustrating and exhausting. A good night's sleep greatest enemy is loads of negative stress that activates the "fight or flight" part of the nervous system. This is due to the release of adrenaline and other chemicals in the body that allow us normally to move and make decisive actions. This certainly is counter active to relaxation necessary for sleep.

Getting enough sleep may also contribute to weight loss. Another recent study indicates that getting enough sleep along with reducing stress may help you lose weight more effectively.

Proper sleep allows our bodies to rest and prepare for the day ahead. Are you ready to get a good night's sleep? Here are some tips to help to sleep well

Count Sheep, Not Bills to Pay. Stop doing activities that cause high stress early in the evening. If, for example you are experiencing stress around money, you should avoid paying bills before bedtime. Set a time aside early in the morning or early on a day off to complete paying bills. Automate your bill paying as much as possible. A tip that I practice is downloading banking transactions and entering data after breakfast. It doesn't take long to complete bill paying if you make this a daily routine.

Stay on a Sleep Schedule. Getting to sleep around the same time each night helps your body regulate a sleep pattern. A sleep schedule helps set your internal clock. While you generally might not have control when you get up, you can crawl into be a little earlier.

Turn off Electronics before Bedtime. Electronics, such as a computer or television can cause too much stimulation just before bedtime. DVR your favorite show and get some good sleep.

Create a Bedtime Routine. Make the bedroom a place to relax and sleep as much as possible. Begin to wind down before bedtime. Drink your favorite sleep tea and settle into a good book. Soak in the tub with some relaxing essential oils, such as lavender or sandalwood. Add relaxations techniques or meditation before bed.

Avoid Stimulants Around Bedtime. Eliminate your favorite caffeinated beverages 4-6 hours before bedtime. Try to exercise earlier in the day as aerobic activity can rev up your body too much for sleep.