Sunday, June 29, 2014




 First sorry, sorry, sorry, this has not been added in a timely manner.  Work and life in general got in the way.  Or if I were trying to make excuses I could say “I haven’t been sleeping well”.  Also everyone trying the challenge of adding more water to your health regime should by now have that one mastered.  Let's just say I wanted to give you extra time.
 
#2 SLEEP
Sleep is the best meditation.   
       The Dalai Lama

A good night’s sleep is the best medicine.   
       Advise of Every Mother in the World
 
So whether it's medicine or meditation let's have a look at sleep.  The fact is that not getting enough sleep or sleep that is disturbed plays a large role in one’s health, safety, and general mood or sense of well being.  If you are one of the millions that suffer from less than optimal sleep then let’s talk about #2 in the health challenge, SLEEP.  By all accounts I should be an expert as I have experienced disrupted sleep all my life, starting in childhood.  However I think I am finally getting to know what helps me.

A general recommendation is 7 to 8 hours per night of restful sleep.  As with other things everyone is different and at different times our own requirements change.  If we have had an illness, injury, are recouping from surgery, or are experiencing an extremely stressful time in life extra sleep may be just what the body and mind need.  Several reputable studies on sleep in the U.S. indicate that many Americans are sleep deprived leading to a host of related health issues.

Here are a few suggestions: 
MAKE YOUR SLEEP ENVIRONMENT COMFORTABLE & SERENE.  Everyone has a different idea of comfort, maybe to you it means having your favorite cozy quilt on the bed with at least 4 different pillows.  Temperature is a factor in comfort, not too hot, not too cold, but that Goldilocks temperature that is for you “just right”.  Light or the lack of is a big factor.  Most sleep expert’s advice in favor of a room that is dark as light affects the sleep center in the brain.  In fact lowering the lights throughout the living space prior to bedtime is one way that the brain prepares for sleep mode. Now for serene, again that is very personal but most experts agree that very stimulating television, movies, music, computer games, or reading a Stephan King novel do not relax the mind or body.  Forgo the 10 o’clock news and choose some restful music, reading material, or meditate prior to going to bed.  A soak in the WW hot tub is a wonderful way to end a busy day and transition to rest mode.  Star gazing on the deck or a twilight walk is all good too.

DEVELOP A SCHEDULE.  The human mind and body love repetition so foster a bedtime habit concerning activities prior and set a regular time for sleep. If you have a very difficult time going to sleep or staying asleep medical advice may be in order but first try these suggestions and see what works for you.  

Wishing Everyone Sweet Dreams
The Naked Lady