We all know we’re supposed to be getting 8 hours of sleep but how often do you wake up feeling rested, refreshed and ready to take on the day? Getting a good night’s sleep is not only important for fighting fatigue but also for supporting your brain, heart, hormones and metabolism. That’s right- sleep is your secret weapon to fight premature aging and an expanding waistline!
By Dr. Sarah Vadeboncoeur, ND
Here is my recipe for a good night’s sleep:
Ingredients:
- Daily movement for 30 minutes (e.g. walking)
- A pitch-black bedroom (or eye mask)
- A 90-minute tech free break before bed
Method:
- Enjoy your morning coffee but cut yourself off from caffeine 12 hours before your
desired bedtime. Yes, it really takes that long for caffeine to clear out of your system! If
you want to be asleep by 11pm, have your coffee before 11 am. - Limit alcohol to 1-2 glasses per day at most and have it with dinner (and not closer to
bed) to minimize its impact on sleep. You might think that glass of wine helps you sleep
but it reduces deep sleep so you’re more likely to toss and turn and wake up feeling
unrefreshed. - Turn all screens off 90 minutes before bed. I know, this is hard, but you’ve likely gotten
more than enough screen time already today and bright screens suppress the
production of melatonin (the hormone that helps you get a deep and restful sleep). - Pick a consistent bedtime: your body loves consistency so go to bed around the same
time every single day. - Help prepare your body with a calming bedtime routine: a brain dump is helpful if your
brain lights up like a Christmas tree when your head hits the pillow. Use this time to
write out your to-do list or anytime that’s on your mind, read a paper book, have a hot
bath or shower, do some gentle stretching or listen to relaxing music or a guided
meditation (my favourite tool is the Insight Timer app).
Happy sleeping and let me know how your recipe for sleep turns out!
Find Dr. Sarah Vadeboncoeur Here:
Website: https://www.docereclinic.ca/
