Why Sleep is So Important, and How to Get It
Why do doctors and researchers say we need 8 hours of sleep? What’s actually happening when we sleep?
When we sleep, our cells repair. Sleep affects your hormones, appetite, immune system, cardiovascular health and more.
Sleep helps to clear toxins from the brain that build up while we are awake. Almost every system and tissue in your body is affected by sleep or the lack of. So, if you want to feel better, heal from injury or illness, perform better both athletically and mentally, think more clearly, be more creative and improve your memory, quality sleep is essential.
Research now shows that chronic lack of sleep or poor sleep quality contribute to diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, obesity and depression.
From the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
Going to sleep and waking at the same time every day help keep the circadian rhythm in a balanced state. Tied to the cycle of day and night, the circadian rhythm is part of the bodies biological clock, one reason why sunlight is so important.
How does MELT help with getting better quality of sleep? The MELT Method includes techniques that directly affect the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS). The Parasympathetic and Sympathetic Nervous System are part of the ANS. The Parasympathetic, think of Rest and Digest, sometimes has a hard time balancing because our Sympathetic, think Fight or Flight, is in overdrive. Using the MELT Method of Rebalancing actually quiets the Sympathetic so the Parasympathetic can do its job. MELT also helps ground us and calm tense muscles to allow us to feel relaxed and ready for bed.
Tips for getting a good night’s sleep include:
Turning in and waking at the same time every day.
Look to the sky first thing in the morning. Let your eyes see natural daylight even on cloudy days.
Avoid computer, phone and tablet screens in the evening.
Sleep in a dark, quiet and cool room.
Use eye shades and a white noise machine if needed.
Exercise daily for at least 20-30 minutes, but not right before bed.
Avoid caffeine later in the day.
Avoid eating too much and too late.
Have a relaxing evening routine that includes MELT, a hot bath or reading.
Join us on Monday evenings at 7pm CST via Zoom for our Monday MELT Wind Down.
A 20 minute class directed at helping you relax and prepare for a good night’s rest. Classes are recorded so whether you join us live or watch at your own convenience, you have access for 30 days.