10 Relaxing Self Care Methods for Better Sleep
I am a strong believer that taking care of yourself helps you serve others better, starting with sleep. If you are anything like me, you are a wife and mother with so many things on your to-do list its almost intimidating. Have you ever noticed that when you get a poor night’s sleep the day seems long, and all you can focus on is getting back in the bed? Time and time again I have awakened in the morning exhausted and feeling like I didn’t sleep at all. Or what about the occasional leg cramp that creeps up on you in the middle of the night like a scene from jaws! Taking care of your body is not only important for sleep, but it is also essential. To sleep better, you must practice relaxing self care methods for better sleep daily.
Why Is Sleep Important For Self-Care?
Sleep is how you recharge your mental, physical, and emotional battery. However, there are downfalls to getting too much sleep. Girl, too much of anything, is not good for you. Getting the right amount of sleep is especially important.
While everyone’s living situations are different, according to SleepFoundation.org adults between the ages of 26-64 need about 7 to 9 hours of sleep a day. Self-care is far deeper than a mani-pedi and retail therapy; it’s how you care for your body. Your body is like a computer, it will malfunction if it hasn’t been shut down to update the latest software.
Not to mention if you download stress and worry you are sure to get a mental virus!
People who do not get enough sleep usually experience things like insomnia and anxiety. If you or anyone you know is experiencing lack of sleep due to underlying health issues call your health care provider today.
Relaxing Self Care Methods for Better Sleep
Turn off Electronics to Relax
Turn off your TV and put your cell phone on do not disturb. One of the worst things you can do is fall asleep watching tv or browsing Instagram and Pinterest. If watching Tv and browsing on your phone is what you did throughout the day, how does your body differentiate between day and night?
Normally people spend about 5 to 6 hours a day looking at some sort of electric screen. Be mindful of your patterns before bed, to maximize the best sleep.
Play Relaxing Earth Sounds For Better Sleep
I am a huge advocate for the Calm App. The calm app features sleep stories, nature melodies, lullabies, and so much more. It is perfect for getting a good night’s sleep.
Take a Warm Relaxing Bath
Bathing in a warm bubble bath with lavender soaps are great for relaxing the mind and soothing the body. In addition to lavender, Epsom salt can be used to relax sore muscles and relieve stiffness. Girl, light a candle, play soft music, and bathe in warm water. It’s a whole mood honey!
Practice Meditation
Now I know sometimes meditation can get a bad rep, and that’s simply because people have associated it with different religions and ritual acts. However, meditation is extremely powerful. It allows you to quiet the mind and connect with your source. I am a believer in Christ Jesus and meditation allows me to enter the mind and heart of God. The bible says that his thoughts are not my thoughts and his ways are not my ways. So, to have a mind like his I must connect to the source. The Calm app is perfect for beginners who want to learn to meditate. `
Read a Book
I love a good read! Reading is fundamental, but it is also great way to put yourself to sleep. Whether you are reading the bible or a fictional novel before bed it will relax the mind for a better sleep and boost your brain power.
Stretch Before Getting In The Bed
After a long day, stretching or practicing different yoga positions is very soothing. For example, the Wide Knee Child’s Pose is great for delivering a sense of serenity and strength making it perfect for a better sleep.
Drink Warm Tea
Tea is very soothing, no matter what time of day you drink it. However, chamomile tea or lavender tea aids in calming the mind and relaxing the body before sleep.
Prepare Your Bed
Girl, I don’t know why this works, it just does! Nothing gives me a great night’s sleep, like clean sheets! While this may not be a daily activity to add to your routine, it should be added to your weekly routine. Clear your bed, pull back those covers and get in.
Prayer
Negative news around the world is at an all-time high. Finding rest in God is immensely powerful before bed. Prayer washes away the day and allows you to turn over your worries about tomorrow into the hands of our Father.
Write Down Your Deep Inner Thoughts
Journaling is a lost cause. Many people don’t write with pens anymore. Writing positive thoughts with your hand has a powerful affect to the mind. Going to sleep after writing about your gratitude helps you to fall asleep in such a positive and relaxing way.
Use this list to create an evening selfcare routine. Getting your body prepared for a better sleep is the ultimate method for selfcare. Leave a comment about your self-care nighttime routines.
May you find this post to be a blessing.
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