Bottom Line: Getting enough sleep can be difficult around the holidays. Well, let’s get real- many of us don’t have the best sleeping patterns to begin with, and the holidays can make it even more challenging. And when we don’t get enough sleep it can result in fatigue, difficulty making decisions, and even illness. But, by staying well adjusted and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, you can keep your energy up and reduce your chance of getting sick.
Why it Matters: Did you know that your sleep patterns directly contribute to your overall energy levels? It’s true. Sleep plays a significant role in your overall health. Chronic sleep deficiency has been linked to obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure, chronic fatigue syndrome, and more. While you are sleeping, your brain and central nervous system are hard at work preparing you for the next day. Believe it or not, sleep is also essential to your immune system. A lack of sleep has been shown to decrease your immune system’s ability to fight common infections. The good news is that getting 7-8 hours per night will allow your body to feel and function better.
Next Steps: Reading a few pages of a book, or listening to some calm music before bed can help slow your mind down and prepare it for a good night's sleep. If muscle tension, spasms, or pain are keeping you up at night, please let us know. We would be honored to create a specific care plan to help you get more rest and recovery. Start your new year right by staying healthy and active!
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