Sleep is so important to our health, yet most peole do not consider its impact and fall into poor sleep habits that compromise their health. Of all the things we can do for our health, this really should be at the top of our list and we don’t do it nearly enough. Here are my top five reasons why sleep is my favorite health promoting activity:

1. You don’t actually have to do anything
2. You can wear whatever you want
3. You get to be unconscious and let your body do all the work for you
4. You get to lie down and be comfortable
5. You get to share this activity with the one you love the most

So why aren’t we getting enough sleep? I have no idea. I do know that in the summer months it can be a bit more difficult to get quality sleep. We sleep best when the temperature is slightly cool, and when the room is totally dark. With the sun setting later, we tend to eat later which can disrupt our sleep. And with the sun rising earlier, we tend to rise earlier which may shorten our normal sleep duration.

My solution: Buy a sleeping mask or thick curtains and turn down the lights after dinner.

How can a good night’s sleep boost our health?

Boost immune function
Boost concentration
Promote weightloss
Promote healthy hormone balance and thyroid function
Promote more stable mood
Promote craving control
Promote cuddling with your spouse, partner and/or lover

Top Five Tips for Great Sleep

1. Eat loads of foods that promote sleep:
Chlorophyll-rich foods, such as leafy and green vegetables, steamed or boiled.
Fruits, such as mulberries and lemons, which calm the mind.
Whole grains boost serotonin, which promotes better sleep.
Chia seeds have a sedative effect.
Have a cup of chamomile tea before going to bed. It calms down your digestive system, and relieves muscle tension.

2. Go to bed and get up at the same time every day.

3. Keep your bedroom as dark and as quiet as possible.

4. Avoid alcohol, sugar, caffeine and ciggies late in the day and into the night.

5. Create good pre-sleep rituals
Your computer and/or television should never join in the boudoir. The bedroom should be reserved for sleeping and loving only.

Of course darkness is key! Keep your room or keep your windows wide open and darken your eyes with a good sleep mask!