Sleep Aid

Sleep Like a Baby
For many of us, sound sleep is a thing of the past. Being able to fall asleep and stay asleep is increasingly difficult as we age. Yet, a good night’s sleep is the foundation of good health.

Our bodies require 7 1/2 to 8 hours of sleep each and every night. If you get only six hours one night, you owe your body two hours, and need to make up the “sleep deficit” the very next night by sleeping for a total of 2 (sleep debt) + 8 (regular sleep hours) = 10 hours. Good luck catching up.

Problems associated with sleep deprivation include chronic fatigue, mental fogginess, muscle and joint aches, headaches, blurred vision, forgetfulness, lowered immune system and upset stomach.

For the complete Sleep Program, ask a staff member for the “Sleep Like a Baby” Brochure.

The Electric Cave
Since the advent of the light bulb in the 1880’s, Americans have been steadily getting less and less sleep. Coined by the father of sleep medicine, William C. Dement, M.D., The Electric Cave is a nod both to the natural stone dwellings of our ancestors and the power of the electric bulb to extend daylight as long as we wish. No longer paced by the rising and setting of the Sun, we are free to push our activities and ourselves well into night, even to our detriment.

Sleep requires us to wind down and sleep hygiene refers to nighttime rituals that can help keep you relaxed as bedtime draws near. It is important to keep the bedroom a safe zone, free of the worries and physical stress that keep us up at night.

This means that the bedroom should only be used for sex and sleep. Do not eat, read, watch TV, or work in bed. Falling asleep while doing these activities will generally not lead to a good quality sleep, and a disturbing network news story or book chapter may keep you from ever really getting to sleep that night. A belly filled with food means your body cannot concentrate on healing and rejuvenation because digestion takes precedence. Laying down right after eating may also lead to heartburn which could also keep you up all night. You will also need to watch out for hidden sources of caffeine or other stimulants that may keep you up all night. These include sodas, chocolate, over-the-counter medications (cold and flu preparations, weight loss supplements, combo headache medicines), and prescription medications.

Chilling News
Have you ever noticed that it is much harder to fall asleep on a hot Summer night than on a cold Winter night? This is because your core body temperature needs to fall slightly so that you can sleep.

Exercising increases body temperature, and therefore late night exercise may delay the onset of sleep because it will take longer for your body temperature to come down from the warming effects of exercise.

While your core body temperature needs to fall, your feet need to stay warm in order for you to fall asleep. A pair of thick socks (or another warm body) will usually suffice.