Daylight savings usually comes as a shock to your body. There's nothing like that feeling of disorientation and grogginess to reinforce the importance of a consistent sleep schedule. Instead of feeling taken by surprise this year, follow these three easy tips to feel rested and energized:
1. Stay consistent
It's tempting to stay up late on Friday or Saturday nights, but sleeping in on the weekend disrupts your body's internal clock. In fact, feeling like you need to sleep in or "catch up" on sleep is proof that you're overtired. In order to feel your best, you need to go to bed at the same time every night and wake up at the same time every morning. Plan when you need to wake up to get to work on time, and set your alarm for that same time seven days a week.
2. Take time to unwind
Most of us struggle to get to bed early enough, usually because we don't feel tired yet. In the half hour before your new scheduled bedtime, do things that help you unwind. Reading, meditating, and journaling are good options that can help take your mind off of a stressful day.
3. Go off the grid
Keep your 30 minutes of relaxation time free from electronics. Research shows that the light from your computer, phone, iPad, and television stimulates your brain, making you feel more alert and awake. Make your bedroom an electronics-free zone, and power down all of your gadgets at least 30 minutes before you head to bed.
Don't let this Saturday's time change sabotage your sleep. Make it a priority to establish a sleep schedule for yourself and your family - you'll thank yourself in the morning!
1. Stay consistent
It's tempting to stay up late on Friday or Saturday nights, but sleeping in on the weekend disrupts your body's internal clock. In fact, feeling like you need to sleep in or "catch up" on sleep is proof that you're overtired. In order to feel your best, you need to go to bed at the same time every night and wake up at the same time every morning. Plan when you need to wake up to get to work on time, and set your alarm for that same time seven days a week.
2. Take time to unwind
Most of us struggle to get to bed early enough, usually because we don't feel tired yet. In the half hour before your new scheduled bedtime, do things that help you unwind. Reading, meditating, and journaling are good options that can help take your mind off of a stressful day.
3. Go off the grid
Keep your 30 minutes of relaxation time free from electronics. Research shows that the light from your computer, phone, iPad, and television stimulates your brain, making you feel more alert and awake. Make your bedroom an electronics-free zone, and power down all of your gadgets at least 30 minutes before you head to bed.
Don't let this Saturday's time change sabotage your sleep. Make it a priority to establish a sleep schedule for yourself and your family - you'll thank yourself in the morning!
