Help - I never get enough sleep!

So are you like me where, whatever the reason, you never get enough sleep?  Could the reason be that you logged too many hours at the office, on the social circuit or your baby was teething?  In any event, the bottom line is that your body didn't get the rest it needed to function at its peak.  No matter what your age, lack of zzz’s increases toxins, free radicals, cortisol and stress hormones while tripping up thyroid function and spinning your adrenals out of whack.  Increased toxins can cause early aging, aging skin and early organ degeneration.  Increased cortisol and stress hormones can lead to weight gain in the belly, blood sugar imbalances, poor memory, anxiety and depression while hormone imbalances can create PMS, fertility issues, acne, lowered sex drive and lowered metabolism.

If you love to sleep, the rehab for this will be a dream. It only takes one month of properly sleeping eight to ten hours a night (properly meaning uninterrupted slumber) and keeping similar bedtimes and wake times in order to see considerable improvements in the aging, neurological and hormonal effects.  To get enough sleep, exercise before evening time to increase circulation and tire yourself out for bedtime; unplug technology an hour before you close your eyes and meditate a minimum of five minutes to calm your mind. 

If quality of rest is an issue, the following three supplements can be used before bed:  500 milligrams of magnesium, 100 milligrams of theanine and 3 milligrams of melatonin along with a tablespoon of flax oil.  Theanine and melatonin are amino acids that we produce less of as we age.  That’s why the supplements are so helpful.   I do take melatonin myself occasionally when I want to get a restful night’s sleep. 

If eight to ten hours of sleep a night simply isn't possible with your hectic weekly schedule, you can compensate for the lost slumber time.  Try taking short 20 – 30 minute naps to refresh your mind (I do this on the LIRR!).  Mediation can also reduce the need for sleep as it helps repair the nervous system.  

Don't forget Pilates Day which is the first Saturday of every May which was established to recognize, raise awareness and celebrate the Pilates method. Practitioners from all over the globe partake in special events and activities for the common goal of sharing our love and appreciation for the exercise modality that continues to better our lives.  Check to see what your local area has in store for May 2!