4 Ways To Fall Asleep in 5 Minutes
Yep-Even If You Have Kids!
I think something I share with a lot of other parents is the notion that sleep has become a delicacy like no other. That feeling at the end of a day when the kids are fed and (hopefully) fast asleep, the lunches are packed and breakfast is ready for tomorrow brings me so much joy to look forward to. Wouldn’t it be nice if it always worked out this way? More times than not I am convinced that as soon as my head hits the pillow I will be fast asleep and, unfortunately, more times than not it is more difficult than I like to admit for me to drift off into a few hours of blissful rest. These are a few tips and tricks I have discovered aid in getting the most out of that essential sleep at the end of busy days.
Keep Your Sleep Space Mess-Free (At Least TRY To)
Try to keep your work space and your sleep space separate. A lot of things happen in your home, make a space to get work done that is separate from your sleepy-time oasis. Keeping you room as a tranquil place that gets a regular cleaning, allows your mind off and fall asleep easier and allow your stress level to decrease.
Put Your Phone Away
We have all heard it, but how many of us practice it? The blue light literally suppresses melatonin, the very thing your body releases to make you sleepy. I started leaving my phone on the table across the room from my bed so I can not give in and check social media before bed. There is never anything on there worth losing even a few minutes of precious sleep.
Meditate
In all the stress that comes with being a father, husband, or a co-worker, it can become very difficult to be everything you need to be for yourself. At the end of everyday, right as you get into bed take a few minutes to actively reflect on the day, and acknowledge what is on your mind. I keep a journal next to my bed so I can write down my thoughts and put them away before bed. Something about putting them on paper gets them out of my head for a little while. Focusing on you and how you show up for life makes a world of difference when you take a few moments to check in on you.
Keep Your Bedtime Consistent
Easier said than done-I know! Think about it though, there is a reason your kids have a scheduled bedtime (probably a lot of them), but it really does allow our bodies to get into a pattern of turning off around a certain time each night. Like anything when you incorporate something new into your life it takes some getting used to. Train yourself to be ready for bed around the same time and your body will listen to you! It is proven!