Step 2 - Get your Z's!

Well, it's Monday morning and I overslept. Figures. I was planning on getting up and logging a few miles on the treadmill before getting ready. I guess I needed the sleep since I NEVER oversleep unless I really need it. I am generally a perfect 6 and a half hour sleeper. I like to go to bed around 9 or 9:30 p.m. and my body wakes me up on it's own between 4 and 5 a.m. depending on when I actually fell asleep. Sometimes if I go to bed at 9, I wake up at 3:45. That's always a bummer. But I know what my body needs. It needs 6 and a half to feel good. There are so many schools of thought on how much sleep you need. However, more and more research concludes different results. I personally feel it's best to do what your body tells it to. My body is tired around 9 so I go to bed at that time. My body wakes up alive and perky around 4ish so I get up then. I am able to exercise and get ready for my day. I am usually in a really great mood by the time I get to work because I have had time to get moving. I didn't get to bed on time last night and therefore, I slept way past my normal wake time. That's okay. I needed it.

I had mentioned Journaling as the first step in our process of taking control of our lives and health once and for all. I want you to take control of your sleep now. This is step 2. I want you to listen to your body and start getting to bed when your body says it's time. Take a book to your room and a glass of chamomile tea if necessary. I do this when I know I am tired but my body is still wired from the day. Lie down and breathe slowly and deeply letting your body relax. Use stress management techniques to calm yourself or stretching to loosen your body. Sleep is extremely important to reaching our goals this year so make sure you are getting enough. Well, off to start my day! Good luck!