This article is reproduced by permission of WildFull Wellness. The original article can be found here.
We all know how important sleep is, but your ‘sleep hygiene’ is just as important. And if you’re a new mom like me, you’re probably not getting the best quality of sleep each night. Following a regime before and at bedtime can help you gain the nourishing sleep you need.
Sleep quality is so important for your immune system. Without a healthy sleep cycle, our immune systems cannot function at their optimal level. Inadequate sleep quality can increase stress levels, cause adrenal fatigue, and have major affects on our digestive system.
Sometimes implementing small practices can go a long way. Here are a few of my go-to tips when practicing good ‘sleep hygiene.’
✔️ Avoid having a big meal too close to bedtime, especially foods you might have trouble digesting
✔️ Avoid caffeine & alcohol at least 3 hours before bed
✔️ Keep your room at a cool temperature, and one that works for you
✔️ Avoid screen time at least 1 hour before bed (tv, computer, cell phones)
✔️ Make sure your room is as dark as possible when sleeping. Even small streams of light can affect the amount of melatonin your body produces at nighttime
✔️ Aim to go to bed at the same time each night
✔️ Follow a bedtime routine & healthy bedtime habits, and ones that soothe your body & mind (bath, reading, meditation, journaling)
✔️ Keep your work & anything that might add stressors out of the bedroom (this includes a TV)
Related post: 8 Ways to Get Better Sleep, Naturally
