Rest Well – Sleep + Restoration

February 14, 2023 | Mary Beth Braun

Arianna Huffington says, “Everything you do, you’ll do better with a good night’s sleep.

Most of you know that when you don’t sleep well and gain the restoration you need, you simply don’t function at your best — physically, mentally and emotionally.

You will spend approximately one-third of your entire life sleeping, allowing your body to restore itself, so it makes sense to pay attention to your sleep health and rituals.

According to a study conducted by the National Sleep Foundation, adults 26-64 years old optimally need between 7 and 9 hours of sleep.

Creating a sleep ritual can help with the quality of your sleep. The following tips are generally good for everyone:

  • Be consistent, going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, including the weekends.
  • Turn off all screens at least one hour before bed.
  • Keep the room cool, between 60 and 67 degrees.
  • Stop eating 2-3 hours before bed.
  • Stop drinking caffeine by 3 p.m. every day.

You may also incorporate:

  • Light yoga
  • Deep breathing
  • Guided sleep meditation
  • Prayer
  • Any other ritual that prepares you for a good night’s sleep

First Steps:

  • Start going to bed and waking up at the same time every day.
  • Turn down the thermostat to 60-67 degrees.
  • Take a few deeps breaths once the lights are out.
Experiment with incorporating the other suggestions or incorporating your own rituals to create the most optimal sleep rituals for you.


Practical Resources on Sleep and Restoration:

Arianna Huffington, How to succeed? Get more sleep

The scientific power of naps

How much sleep do you actually need?

Should You Use the SNOOZE Button?