Benefits of Sleep
- Your immune system is stronger, and you are less likely to get sick.
- Likely to experience a better mood because you feel rested and energized.
- You are more likely to be aware and regulate your own emotions.
- Some studies even suggest that improving sleep can improve marital relationship quality due to the ability of improving other factors (i.e. mood, not as cranky, feeling productive).
- Can have a positive impact on your sex life as lack of sleep can lead to decrease in libido and higher risk of erectile dysfunction.
- Can increase your productivity with work and tasks. Chances are that you are more forgetful and unable to concentrate when you do not get enough sleep.
- You can be confident in your ability to be safe when driving and protecting other people on the road. Drowsy driving can put you and others in harm’s way.
How a sleep routine can help you
What can be included in a sleep routine?
- Setting boundaries by using timers on your phone or watch
- Taking a bath
- Drinking water or a cup of de-caffeinated tea
- Going to the restroom before going to bed
- Using essential oils
- Listening to calming music without lyrics
- Reading a book
- Be sure to avoid caffeine
- Put all electronics away at least 30 minutes before bed
- Stretch your legs, back, and neck. We often carry a lot of tension in these areas and can feel stiff when trying to get comfortable.
- Most importantly, try to keep your sleep consistent
What can get in the way of sleep and a sleep routine?
For others it may be that you have recently become new parents and your sleep cycle is now based on your new. born’s sleep cycle Many couples I work with talk about the stress of trying to begin sleep training so that they themselves can feel rested. Here is a link that talks about different sleep training techniques.
If you have found yourself to be experiencing insomnia or have had chronic issues with trying to sleep, be sure to speak to your primary doctor to learn more about your body and ways to take care of your physical health.
References:
https://www.sleepfoundation.org/
Troxel WM, Braithwaite SR, Sandberg JG, Holt-Lunstad J. Does Improving Marital Quality Improve Sleep? Results From a Marital Therapy Trial. Behav Sleep Med. 2017 Jul- Aug;15(4):330-343. doi: 10.1080/15402002.2015.1133420. Epub 2016 Apr 25. PMID: 27110636; PMCID: PMC5079848.
By: Priscilla Rodriguez, M.S., LMFT
I specialize in working with clients who are looking for balance in their lives and learning practical and realistic ways to engaging in self-care techniques. I often incorporate self-care techniques into my treatment plans as it has been proven to help individuals and couples learn how to regulate their own emotions and communicate with others. Feel free to look at the services offered through Modern Wellness Counseling and check out the client portal to conveniently schedule your next appointment.