Are you guilty of the most overlooked, unhealthy practice in America — getting too little sleep?  Most of us are!  In this 21st century fast paced lifestyle, sleep is definitely a must.

Sleep ensures functionality of the brain, perfomance of tasks, and even sharpens memory.  It can also aid in losing weight. 

The average human body needs about 7 1/2-8 hours of sleep.  Some people even need 11-12 hours a night all their lives.  The best time and most affective restful sleep is before midnight.  (8 p.m.-12 p.m.) Good sleepers take only a 1/2 hour to fall asleep and only wake up once or twice throughout the night, and fall right back asleep.

Women have a more difficult time with sleep than men.  Stress plays a big role.  Many struggle to turn their minds off at night.  Insomnia feeds on stress, and it then becomes a vicious circle.

To get a better night sleep:

Exercise.  Use  of the heart and muscles allows for the body to become tired and fall asleep faster. 

Avoid caffeine and alcohol.  Both of these stir the body and decreases chance of a healthy night sleep.

Naps also tend to mess up a sleep schedule, take them early on if need be. 

The body feeds off of light, and hormones are released signaling to your brain it is time to get up so be sure to keep the room dark. 

Try not to study, eat, or balance your check book in bed.  Reserve it for sleeping only. 

Sleep is so important and not something the get “caught up” on.  Whether it be busy work hours,  family or social life, sleep is not to be taken for granted.  Develop healthy sleeping habits and you will definitely notice a difference in energy in your daily routine.

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