With the increasing amount of daily activities, it is no surprise that sleep and exercise are often low on our list of priorities. It is important to realize the benefits of sleep and exercise and how they can help improve several aspects of our lives.
Falling into poor sleeping habits may have negative affects on appetite, mood, appearance, and decision making skills. In turn, exercising 30 minutes daily can increase mood, control weight, and possibly make it easier to get the much needed sleep which we tend to deprive ourselves. Try some of these helpful tips and suggestions to restore a healthy and happier you in 2012.
The Benefits of Sleep
Getting a good night sleep can help you in nearly every aspect of your life. After a quality night sleep we tend to feel alert, focused, and engaged in all our daily activities. In addition, sleep can help control appetite and even improve upon physical appearance. Good night sleeps facilitate a fresh looking face and help reduce dark circles underneath the eyes. It helps complete all the stages necessary for adequate muscle repair and regulate hormones.
Sleep Longer
The average adult needs about seven to eight hours of sleep per night to leave the body rested and rejuvenated. Although every person is different, try to find a sleep schedule that leaves you feeling awake and alert throughout the entire day. Feeling sleepy at 2 p.m.? Try to fit in another hour of sleep to eliminate sluggish afternoon feelings.
Sleep and Fitness
Daily exercise will not only leave you feeling better, but it may lead to a good night sleep. Fitting in daily exercise regimens may assist in falling asleep easier as well as enhance a deeper slumber. Try to exercise in the morning or afternoon however; exercising too close to bedtime may leave you restless at night. An adequate night sleep gives the body the time to go through natural muscle repair which is essential to a healthy lifestyle and great for exercise regimens.
Sleep Smarter
Although we may crave sleep and feel tired at night, many people find falling asleep a task in itself. To improve sleeping habits, it may be helpful to reduce noise, control room temperature, and create a comfortable sleeping surface. If noise is an issue for you when you sleep, try a fan or soft music. It has been suggested that sleeping in a room that is slightly cooler may reduce sleep interruptions and mimic the body’s internal temperatures during sleep cycles. Lastly, ensure your sleeping area is large enough for movement and supports back and neck for comfort.
Let us know if you have any comments below.
Posted by: Jenny May Clermont, owner, Fitness Together.
