SLEEP--Are you getting enough for good health?

Do you have good "sleep hygiene"? Yes, you read that correctly...sleep hygiene is an actual subject of which most people probably are unaware. If you are having trouble falling asleep, having interrupted sleep, and getting good quality sleep every night, then it's probably time you take a look at your sleep hygiene.  Having good sleep hygiene as defined by the Sleep Foundation is, "having both a bedroom environment and daily routines that promote consistent, uninterrupted sleep."  This means having a consistent sleep schedule, making your bedroom comfortable and free of disruptions, following a relaxing pre-bed routine, and building healthy habits during the day can support ideal sleep hygiene. Without restful sleep, our bodies and minds cannot reset and do the repair work needed to maintain good health.  Sleep deprivation and sleep deficiency are consequences of not getting enough sleep. Sleep deprivation is not getting enough sleep one night. Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to chronic sleep deficiency if those lost hours are not made up that week the sleep is lost. Sleep deficiency can lead to physical and mental problems, injuries, loss of productivity, and potential danger behind the wheel while driving.  Some say being sleep deprived is as much danger on the road driving as being under the influence of alcohol.  Reaction times and motor skills become significantly impaired.  Adults need between 6-8 hours of good quality sleep per night for optimal health. Naps are short-term fixes but keep them short and earlier in the afternoon so as to not interfere with bedtime. And remember to prioritize sleep especially if you are noticing you need to improve your sleep hygiene. Taking a low-dose melatonin supplement can assist the body to relax and fall asleep. CareFast's SLEEP- For All Night Rest is a delicious hot cocoa drink mix with low-dose melatonin and an exclusive sleep-regulating amino acid complex to support sleep quality. Incorporating this and other relaxing habits into your nightly routine will help you wind down. It might be tempting to skip sleep in order to work, study, watch your favorite show, or exercise, but it’s vital to treat sleep as a priority. Calculate a target bedtime based on your fixed wake-up time and do your best to be ready for bed around that time each night. Taking these small steps may make a huge improvement in your sleep quality and have more mornings feeling rested, refreshed, and ready for the day.