HEALTH AND WELLNESS Tips for Better Sleeping

[PAHaworth]

HopeFM - Journey to Wholeness

HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Tips for Better Sleeping

Although some people have serious sleep issues that require medical attention, here are a few simple hints that can help most of us have the restful sleep we need:
• Take your sleep seriously. Be intentional about getting adequate sleep and rest each night.
• Develop regular sleep patterns. Our bodies work on rhythms, so try to go to bed at the same time every night and get up at the same time, even on weekends.
• Regular physical exercise (the amount your doctor recommends for you) can be very beneficial in helping you get a good night’s sleep. When you exercise, your body burns up energy, and sleep is the best way (along with eating proper food) to restore it. “The sleep of a labouring man is sweet” (Ecclesiastes 5:12).
• Do not to go to sleep on a full stomach. Develop the routine of a light evening meal and avoid food for at least two hours prior to going to bed.
• Avoid caffeinated beverages, as caffeine is a stimulant and may keep one awake.
• Avoid stressful situations before going to sleep. Take the TV out of the bedroom permanently. Resolve family disagreements during daylight hours, not at bedtime.
• Focus on spiritual things and claim God’s promises about trusting and resting in Him. “Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him” (Psalm 37:7). Many people find it extremely beneficial to read from Psalms before they go to sleep each evening. The psalms tend to bring calm to our lives and a peace to our souls. They relax the mind and prepare it for sleep.