The
clocks moved ahead on Sunday, so we're all just a little drowsy and
maybe even a little cranky.
Daylight
saving time is kind of like a case of jet lag, so it goes away in 2
or 3 days.
But
we can all do things to improve the sleep we get and it's impact on
our lives.
Dr.
Joseph Ojile, of the National Sleep Foundation, says the
key is to have a winding down period at the end of the night.
Get
away from high stimulation things that can get you energized.
Make sure to avoid
exciting TV shows, video games and all forms of electronics.
That includes your cell phone.
Ojile
also says that alcohol isn't usually good, when it comes to sleep.
It
may help initially, but after 4 hours or so, it irritates your brain
and may cause you to wake up during the night.
The
doctor also suggests that you make the bedroom a place that is a
sleep sanctuary.
It
needs to be cool and comfortable and used for sleep only.
Do
thing like working and exercising, in other rooms.
Ojile
also warns of the consequences of disrupted, poor quality, or
insufficient sleep.
Those
problems are an epidemic in our society.
The
consequences include weight gain, depression, heart disease, diabetes
and premature aging.
Ojile
says It can affect every organ and bodily system over time, so we're
much better off if we make sure we're properly rested.
It
has huge pay offs both mentally and physically.
