Did you know that poor sleep is linked to:
-weight gain
-decreased productivity
-heart disease
-depression
-inflammation
Discover how these small changes can improve the quality of your rest.
1. Make Your Bed
Clutter requires focus and focus requires energy. At the end of a long day our energy is in limited supply. By creating an open space we invite our mind and body into a realm of relaxation. Sure, you might be dodging piles of laundry on the floor but look to your bed as an island.
By making your bed it can become a much needed oasis after a day of hard work.
2. Take A Shower Or Bath
Throughout the day we interact with different people, personalities, and energy.
A shower or bath is a wonderful way to rinse and release residual energy from those people and experiences that we encounter.
.
In many traditions water is associated with new life.
End your day by reminding yourself that there are new possibilities, new ideas, and new experiences to be had.
3. Invest In Pajamas
Treat yourself to an actual pair of pajamas. Yes, you heard me- real pajamas.
No, not the t-shirt with grease stains and those paints with rips in the thigh. I’m talking actual pajamas, matching top and bottoms.
Yes, the kind that you see adults wearing when they eat pancakes in commercials. You might be rolling your eyes but understand this- what we wear dictates how we feel. If we adorn ourself in a fresh set of pajamas then we give our body permission to rest.
The mind is powerful tool. What happens when we see someone in a scuba suit? We assume that person is going for a dive. Would we wear a scuba suit to bed? No. So why is it standard practice for us to sleep in clothing from our past that should’ve been tossed ions ago?
Are we time travelers?
Dress for success- sleep matters.
4. Write Your Worries Away
In Guatemala legend says that says a Mayan princess (Ixmucane) received a gift from the sun god that allowed her to solve any problem a human could worry about.* From this legend originated “Worry Dolls.”
At night you share your worries with the dolls and it is believed that by morning they're gone.
Legend says that while we sleep the dolls act as intermediaries
carrying all of our fear, worry, and anxiety to God.
Whether you have a worry dolls, a prayer box, or a journal-
what matters is that you extract the thoughts that are causing you stress.
Once written do not reread.
Write it, close it, and release it.
* https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Worry_doll
5. Pray
Begin with gratitude. Name one thing you are thankful for. It doesn’t have to be a laundry list of items or people- just one thing is a good start.
Next ask for what you need.
It can be anything. Maybe you need more career opportunities or help letting go of a past hurt?
Maybe you need guidance in a current situation? Perhaps help with debt?
There is no request too big or small. Ask without judgement.
Lastly name one person (family or friend) and something loving you wish for them.
If you can’t think of one person in particular you can pray for someone who may be feeling alone or have no one to pray for them.
I also like to ask God to use my dreams as a way to show me what I need to see, hear, and be aware of.
Try these steps at least once and you will see what a difference it makes!
Commit to it for a week and you will feel invigorated, revitalized, and rise with enthusiasm for the day ahead.
What steps can you do tonight to sleep easier?
