This Mother's Day give yourself the gift of good sleep! |
While mothers are appreciated year-round, they will receive extra praise and even a few gifts this Mother's Day as a thank you for everything they do. This year busy mothers should give themselves something that's free and easy to achieve if they put their mind to it - a night of good quality sleep.
While proper sleep, like a good diet and exercise, is central to our overall health and vitality, one-third of Canadian women do not feel well rested in the morning, according to research from the Better Sleep Council Canada. And if they have a poor night's sleep, 62 per cent of women are less productive the next day.
"Women today are in a race against time juggling careers, families, workout schedules and household tasks," says Valerie Stranix of the Better Sleep Council Canada. "It's easy to skimp on sleep to fit everything in but that isn't the answer. Improving your length and quality of sleep benefits you and your whole family."
To help women get a great night's sleep this Mother's Day and throughout the year, the Better Sleep Council Canada offers these quick sleep tips:
Wind down before bedtime: Give yourself at least an hour to unwind and prepare for a good night's sleep. As hard as it may be to put away your 'to do' list, make sleep a priority.
Help your kids unwind.then you can! Tackle projects and homework in the early part of the evening. Help them transition at least one hour before bedtime with a routine like taking a bath or reading.
Avoid distractions: Avoid stressor activities like watching TV, computer work, or dealing with work issues before bed time. Focus on yourself. Take a warm bath or read a favourite book.
Make your bedroom a haven for: Sleep and sex. Sleep in a cool, quiet and dark room for extra calmness and comfort, and ensure your bed provides adequate space for you and your partner.
Avoid stimulants and late night eating: Consuming stimulants, such as caffeine, in the evening can make it more difficult to fall asleep. Finish eating at least two to three hours before bedtime.
More information about sleep can be found at www.bettersleep.ca.
