Sleep should not be seen as a luxury, but rather a necessity, for it is essential in maintaining physical resilience and mental clarity. In an episode of Conversations on Sleep by Neurovalens, renowned clinical psychologist Dr. Janet Kennedy explains how disruptions in life may change our sleep habits. She highlights the significance of deliberately controlling sleep in order to maintain good well-being and offers practical ways for overcoming these obstacles.
According to Dr. Kennedy, stress, lifestyle changes, and health concerns all have an impact on sleep vulnerability. These little disruptions are normal, but if left uncontrolled, they might progress to chronic insomnia. Chronic Insomnia can make us irritable and vulnerable to depression, weakening our immune systems and interfering with how our bodies repair themselves. Everyone can benefit from having decent sleep habits.
Hormonal changes and the duties of caring for a newborn create distinct sleep issues for new mothers. This frequently results in extreme sleep deprivation, which can set off serious conditions including postpartum depression or anxiety. Dr. Kennedy advises adopting precautions, like limiting exposure to blue light at night and going to bed when the infant does.
Additionally, Dr. Kennedy stresses the importance of a regular sleep schedule for everyone, recommending a consistent wake-up and bedtime to align with the body’s natural clock. Establishing a peaceful pre-sleep routine, such as reading, taking a warm bath, or practicing relaxation techniques, signals to the brain that it’s time to unwind and prepare for sleep, creating a tranquil end to the day.
Dr. Kennedy suggests effective nighttime behaviors to promote restful sleep. Limiting devices at least one hour prior bedtime reduces blue light exposure and increases melatonin levels, resulting in better sleep quality. Reading can help you ease from the day’s tension and fall asleep more easily. Applying a cold compress to the forehead can calm the body and soothe the mind, creating ideal conditions for deep sleeping.
Adopting these easy but effective activities into your evening routine will drastically improve your sleep quality. Better sleep does not only improve your mood but it also strengthens your immune system, increases your daily energy levels, and improves cognitive skills like memory and decision-making. Taking efforts to improve your sleep means investing in a healthier, more vibrant lifestyle.