Have you ever noticed how your sleep schedule, or lack of it may change your outlook, or your energy level? Does your ability to remember or to think clearly reflect on the amount or lack of sleep you get?
Routines can be helpful in getting a better night’s rest and in getting enough sleep. My grandchildrens’ bedtime routine happens soon after dinner and includes getting into nightclothes, washing face and brushing teeth and a parent reading to them, hearing or saying prayers, and listening to a c.d.
Flylady.org has a suggestion for a few minutes of night-time housekeeping as part of your routine so you start the next day organized.
Research indicates that a regular sleep schedule is conducive to sleep. One friend claims that if he even waits an extra 15 minutes he has difficulty falling asleep. I tend to get a second wind and my mind does not want to shut down when I get into bed. Sometimes a notepad and pencil used for a quick note reassures me that I will remember those pesky “to do” things that come to mind.
How does lack of sleep effect me, and maybe you? I’ll have a more difficult time being optimistic. I may question what good my efforts are, and avoid any simple task that involves energy or decision making. Housekeeping routines, phone calls to keep in touch, or even taking a shower wind up being a big effort. Shopping is postponed – it takes energy to make the list, drive, and walk around the store. I may grab a t.v. dinner, vegetate in front of a computer game or a television program.
In DH’s case, a breathing machine will be rented for a short time before it is prescribed. It should help him with a better quality of sleep. We hope for a higher energy level and probably less need to stay in bed for as long. We found out that many times per night DH would have have obstructed breathing and three seconds of wakefulness, if I understood correctly.
The best advice I was given as a young mother was to take care of myself in order to take care of my family.
I encourage you to keep a more regular schedule. Get your sleep and try to take a few stress relieving walks, even if it is in a mall hall. I’ll try to take my own advice.
