The Importance of Sleep - Especially in a Pandemic

Since the start of the pandemic, incidence of insomnia has risen 20% with people reporting more anxiety and depression that accompanies their sleep troubles.

But you don’t need me to tell you that sleep is important. When we’re short on sleep

🛏️ our focus and concentration suffers

🛏️ heart health decreases and risk for stroke increases

🛏️ risk for type 2 diabetes increases

🛏️ our immune system takes a hit

🛏️ depression and anxiety increases; emotional regulation decreases

🛏️ and inflammation increases. 

And those are just the major impacts! 

What can you do about it??

Taking a page from one of my favorite books (and favorite people!), The Sleep Revolution by Arianna Huffington and set yourself up for successful slumber by

💤 transitioning into sleep with a calming routine (lavender lotion, lights down, calming activities)

💤 change into pajamas or ‘sleep designated clothing’

💤 escort all electronic devices out of the room and turn off devices at least 30 minutes before turning in

💤 keep your room dark and between 60° and 67°

💤 do some light stretching, yoga, or meditation before bed (I LOVE yoga nidra, especially after rough or high-energy days when my mind needs to come back down). 

Next Steps

  • What can you do tonight to start getting more quality Zzzs?

  • What needs to change about your sleep environment in order to make it more conducive to quality sleep?

  • Set your alarm for 1 hour before bed to dial down all electronics.

  • Let me know what works for you! I am always looking for new strategies to help with my fitful sleep and periodic insomnia - please share!

Dreamily,
Emma

Emma MulvanyComment