Getting quality sleep is so key for good mental health and chronic fatigue can be extra challenging. Sleep makes your body feel so much better and going without can be really unpleasant. With Daylight savings time and springing your clocks ahead, sleep is likely on your mind. That makes sense because it’s really important.
When you’re tired, your ability to cope with normal stress is decreased. Fatigue from lack of sleep can lead to being more sedentary, meaning you get fewer endorphins than you would normally get with regular physical activity. Socializing becomes less important when you’re sleepy, so those meaningful connections that help support wellness are harder to maintain.
Even worse, lack of sleep can interfere with your brain’s ability to problem solve and sequencing tasks in a logical order can be harder than usual. Feeling less capable can add to an already low mood. So how do you break the cycle? We have some tips to spring clean your sleep routine and get yourself feeling better.
- Establish a routine. Create bedtime rituals to unwind and get yourself ready for bed. Routine can be comforting and ease the transition from wakefulness to sleep. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
- Use your bedroom only for sleeping. Try to avoid working in your bedroom, perform other activities in other areas of your space if you can. It’ll make you less likely to be counting task and more likely to be counting sheep.
- Leave the phone alone. Set yourself a digital bedtime. Invest in an alarm clock and charge your phone in another room. The light from your smartphone can make it hard for you to settle into sleep and it’s less distracting to keep it out of sight, out of mind.
- Try to move even a little. Healthy activity can help make your body tired enough to sleep. It doesn’t have to be a big crazy workout; every little bit counts. So get moving, even if it’s just a short walk to get some fresh air.
- Talk it out. Instead of tossing, turning and worrying – find someone you can talk to. Whether it’s a family member, friend, or even a qualified counsellor, like the ones that work with Wellin5. Talking things through can make a big difference.
With these simple steps you’ll be well on your way to a good night’s sleep more consistently. Stop worrying about springing ahead and a Monday of being tired and start getting excited about getting the rest you need. Good night and sleep tight (and if you need to talk, we’re here for you!)