In some ways life is pretty simple. Like breathing, you just do it without thinking. I know I have to eat to live, so I eat. Sometimes my food is delicious and gives pleasure as well as the means to live, and sometimes I eat things I don't like so much because they are good for me. Then we get into the complicated parts like sleeping. For me, sleep is a mysterious and elusive creature. I seek it with persistence. I fantasize about it. Sometimes I find it and I feel the pleasure that comes with becoming someone else as I travel through my dreams. Other nights it lurks in dark corners, remaining hidden from me. I toss, turn and I feel bitter with envy, knowing nearly everyone I know is sleeping peacefully.
Sleep is important in many ways beyond survival. A good night’s sleep is essential to good health, it can improve mood and even spur creativity. When I realized that desiring sleep is different from taking the steps to achieve better rest, I began implementing small changes in my daily life to improve the quality of the sleep I am lucky enough to get. I would love to share my tips with you.
First, I set myself a bedtime. I used to stay awake until 3 a.m. working. My family wakes up early. Many nights I was considering myself lucky to get 3 hours of sleep... {like I said... I long for sleep! For a good reason too.} Now I am in bed by 1 a.m. After a few nights my body adapted. When I go to bed at my established bed time, my body recognizes it is time for sleeping.
Second, I get up at the same time every day. Now that my body is used to our sleep schedule I no longer wake up to an alarm, I know what time to wake up, and I feel good when I wake up.
Third, I invested in excellent white bedding. I can be easily distracted, and bedtime is no exception. If a sheet feels scratchy to my skin, I will be drawn back to that sensation time and time again. With great pillows, blankets and linens I am sleeping better than ever.
Finally, I removed all clutter from my bedroom. To feel satisfied and relaxed I must have an impeccable area for slumber. I prefer white bedding to complete this picture of peace, organization and relaxation. The White Company has a fantastic selection of products to make any bedroom comfortable and beautiful enough to inspire the sweetest of dreams.
I hope these tips help you to make the most of the sleep you get each night. How many hours of sleep do you get on average? Do you have any tips for getting a good night’s rest?
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