5 Tips for Resting Better and Feeling Great

Posted on May 05, 2022 Topic : Inspirational/Devotional, Men's Christian Living
Posted by : Stan Toler

Most people need about eight hours of sleep each night, but many people get far less. Lack of sleep is now a recognized issue in our society, with the Centers for Disease Control labeling it a public health problem.*

If you have difficulty falling asleep, waking up, or sleeping through the night, or if you nod off unintentionally during the day, you may not be getting enough sleep—or enough quality sleep. Lack of sleep depletes your physical and mental energy. It makes simple tasks harder, undermines your creativity, and makes you more vulnerable to stress. In short, it’s an attitude killer.

To support a positive attitude, you need healthy sleep habits. Here are some tips that may help you get more rest, feel better, and maintain a positive outlook.

1. Set a consistent bedtime and rising time. Successful people often have highly structured sleep habits, including a set bedtime and end-of-the-day routines. Get to bed at a consistent hour, and you’ll be more likely to get good sleep.

2. Don’t eat a lot in the evening. Digesting a heavy meal will keep your body awake when your mind is trying to fall asleep. To fall asleep faster, eat sparingly after dinner.

3. Avoid caffeine. I love a good cup of coffee, but I avoid it in the afternoon and evening so the stimulant effect of caffeine won’t interrupt my sleep. Remember that many soft drinks also contain caffeine.

4. Create a bedtime routine. This may sound juvenile, but it’s part of building a habit. Doing the same things each day before falling asleep prepares your body to relax. Whether that’s brushing your teeth, reading, putting the dog out, laying out your clothes for the morning, or other actions, developing a shut-down pattern will help you sleep faster and sounder.

5. Take a consistent day off. I believe everyone needs one full day each week for rest and restoration. Working seven days a week increases your stress level and drains you mentally as well as physically. Take a consistent day off and relax.

Get adequate rest, and you’ll feel better. Feel better, and it will be that much easier to maintain a positive outlook in all aspects of life.

*“Insufficient Sleep Is a Public Health Problem,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, no date, https://www.cdc.gov/features/dssleep/.