Our sleep patterns have been really off lately. Usually, I don't have any trouble sleeping. I do like to get 8 hours of sleep! We have been going to bed really early lately. Brian gets so tired and I know that he thinks that if he goes to bed it's one day closer to the end of his recovery! I know several people that can survive on just 5 hours of sleep. I don't know how they do it. I am cranky and tired all day long if I don't get my sleep.
How do you know if you are getting enough sleep?
If you are not getting enough sleep then you may experience some of these symptoms:
memory problems
depression
drowsiness during the day
weakening of your immune system
increased perception of pain
So, how do you get a better night's sleep?
go to bed at the same time every night
establish a bedtime routine
limit your intake of alcohol and caffeine
get regular exercise - try not to exercise too close to bedtime
eat a healthy diet, but don't eat for 2-3 hours before bed
try not to nap during the day
I know that when I sleep better not only do I feel better, but I look better and have so much more energy.
Right now our bedtime routine is the same every night. Brian gets his meds starting at 7:30 pm, then takes his ambien right before bed. Brian likes to sleep with the TV on. I don't recommend this. You can get distracted by the TV and not fall asleep as easily. But, it is what it is....
What is your bedtime routine and how many hours of sleep do you require?
I try to go to bed around 10-10:30, Steve follows usually within an hour. I can usually roll over and go right back to sleep when he climbs into bed. I'm up then @ 6:30-7:00 a.m. with my dog. He goes to potty, I potty and we start our day. He has to have insulin everyday so it is important we stick to a schedule. For the most part I feel rested every day.
ReplyDeletei'm in bed by 11 and up around 7-ish. that's when i function at my best!
ReplyDeleteI go to bed around 11-ish, I wake up to feed the baby around 3 am, and I'm up for the day at 6 am. I could use more sleep, but we have to make sacrifices!
ReplyDeleteI came by to welcome you to SITS! We're happy to have you with us!