Holiday Trimmings
Week 4
Stress no more and sleep enough -
Simple strategies to get you through this busy season
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Stress no more and sleep enough this holiday season
The holidays are a time of joy, but they can also be a time of stress. Managing your stress effectively will help you stay healthy and able to appreciate the holidays.
Sleep is an important resource that keeps you healthy, mentally sharp and able to cope with stress more effectively. Unfortunately, people who are stressed and busy tend to get less sleep than they need. Are you feeling short on sleep? Try these tips to make sure you get the sleep you need this holiday season:
· Maintain a regular sleep and wake cycle, even on the weekends. Your body's sleep cycles are affected by your own natural biological rhythms - called the circadian clock. A regular waking time helps set the circadian clock to help you fall asleep at night. When you go to sleep and wake up at the same time consistently - even on the weekends - you'll have fewer sleep problems.
· Establish a regular bedtime routine. Start by dimming the lights and doing something relaxing - such as visualizing a beautiful place - to help establish a bedtime routine. Stay away from stimulating or anxiety-inducing activities like paying bills, shopping or working out. Studies have shown that taking a nice relaxing bath or shower before bed can ease the transition into deeper sleep.
· Create a sleep environment that is dark, quiet, comfortable and cool. Make sure your mattress is comfortable and your bedroom is dark and free of noise and distractions. |
