With 2021 kicking off and people evaluating their goals for the new year, many might be overlooking the importance of quality sleep in reaching any goal.
Lack of sleep can lead to forgetfulness, irritability, and even workplace accidents or dangerous, drowsy driving.
“Sleep actually heightens brain function itself so a lack of sleep for whatever reason really impacts your cognitive performance,” said SleepWerx founder Terry L. Penner. “It affects your thinking, your decision making. Sleep also enhances mood.”
Terry, who is a double board-certified nurse practitioner with more than four decades of experience in the medical industry, sees how lack of sleep can make it harder for people to reach their goals in all aspects of life.
Health-related New Year’s resolutions are the most common goals, but lack of sleep can derail a healthy diet by pushing people to eat more convenient, less nutritious foods and lean too heavily on sugar and caffeine stimulants.
“People tend to use way too much caffeine when they’re not sleeping,” said Terry. “They also consume too much sweet soda. People tend to overdo it on sugar and junk because it’s easy to grab when they just don’t have the energy to cook a good meal or prepare a big salad.”
This year, Terry has seen an increase in patients seeking help with insomnia as well as more patients experiencing anxiety around contracting COVID-19 or being home more often. This makes it more difficult for them to enjoy restful sleep, especially if they aren’t practicing a relaxing night routine.
“A lot of people don’t wind down before bed,” said Terry. “A lot of people wait until the last second and think ‘Oh, it’s 11! I’ve got to go to sleep,’ but your brain is still working.”
To create a better sleep routine Terry recommends winding down two hours before bed, and reserving the bedroom for sleep and intimacy only. Going to bed at the same time each night and getting up at the same time no matter what are important strategies for good sleep. Setting the clock for 30 minutes later rather than repeating 5 minutes of interrupted sleeps can help reduce morning grogginess.
“With electronics, even a game or reading an eBook, can make people’s heart rate go up,” said Terry. “Do things that are non-engaging for relaxation. Whether it’s sitting in low light or having a warm bath. There are also programs on YouTube on yoga for sleep. Even ten to 20 minutes of gentle stretching and deep breathing can be great for winding down.”
SleepWerx is located at 3514 N. Power Road, Suite 127, in the Selina Ashworth Building. For more information, visit mysleepwerx.com, or call (480) 571-8460.