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Beauty Sleep is Legit: How to Get More of It and Look Your Best
We already know that healthy sleep patterns make us feel better, improve our mood, and aid in cognitive function. As it turns out, there are also beauty benefits that can emerge when we get the right amount of sleep. When we feel and look our best, we present a version of ourselves to the world that is fierce and beautiful.
Self-love starts with self-care. Treating yourself well is about respecting your body’s needs for proper nourishment inside and out. One of the best ways to nurture yourself and look your best is to optimize your sleep quality, and, as The Sweetest Little Life explains, there are many good reasons to focus on sleep, whether it’s managing the stress of work, your upcoming wedding or family life in general.
Studies cited by the Division of Sleep Medicine at Harvard Medical School show that insufficient sleep contributes to a variety of poor health outcomes, like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity. Our ability to focus on tasks declines with poor sleep, so we are more likely to make errors in simple tasks, have accidents, etc. Conversely, when we get the right amount of quality sleep, our bodies respond positively, with better-regulated systems and improved immunity.
There are many rejuvenating aspects of sleep. Sleep deficit can impact our brain plasticity, which makes it difficult for us to retain and recall information. A study in Sweden showed that our appearance when well-rested is also notably healthier and more attractive versus when we are sleep deprived. Humans are sensitive to sleep-related cues in one another’s faces: It is a subconscious ability that we use as we assess one another in daily life.
Indeed, beauty sleep is legit. When we rest well, we look and feel better. But a good night’s sleep can be difficult for many people due to a variety of factors. Fortunately, there are methods for attaining better sleep, which can improve health and help you look your best.
As you work on boosting your sleep, consider some ways to soothe your mind and treat your body well as these are important factors for a better night’s sleep. Paying attention to your sleep hygiene can help. Experts at the American Sleep Association (ASA) recommend that we stick with a consistent bedtime, avoid daytime napping, and do not stay in bed for more than 5 to 10 minutes if we have not fallen asleep — no tossing and turning! Additionally, ASA recommends exercising prior to 2 p.m. and reducing caffeine, which can impact sleep dramatically. Fresh air in your room is another way to promote a healthy environment, whether through an air filtering system or an open window.
Treating your body well often means engaging your senses for optimal relaxation. It may be worth considering a massage to reduce tension in your body, which can lower stress levels in the mind. Using our auditory senses can also offer a lot of relaxation for sleep improvement, and this may be best achieved through digital devices.
It’s also important to make sure your bedroom is conducive to quality sleep. This means keeping your bedroom clean to keep allergens at bay, which promotes a better night’s sleep. Consider hiring professional furniture cleaners to come do a deep clean on your bed, drapes, and any chairs or upholstered benches you may have in the room. Finding a qualified pro is easy thanks to Angi, which will help you source local companies. You can read up on customer reviews and ratings to narrow your search, then contact a handful directly to get estimates.
Better Sleep Through Technology
We live in an age where technology can offer a lot of novel solutions to daily problems. Investing in speakers to play relaxing music or sounds of nature can help facilitate relaxation and promote sleep. Another unique way to use technology for sleep improvement is the Dodow, a wireless device that uses fluctuating light emissions to assist people with establishing breathing patterns that promote relaxation.
Getting proper rest through technology can help us wake up feeling and looking healthy. Consider using meditation apps, white noise machines, play relaxing nature sounds to lull you to sleep, or use products that promote relaxation such as oil diffuser, lavender pillow spray or weighted blankets. And don’t forget about the importance of wearing comfortable clothes like pajamas, and nightgowns for improved sleep. To help you along, look for some clothes that leave you feeling fantastic so you can sleep well at night.
Best-selling author, podcast host, yoga instructor, reiki master, hypnotherapist, trauma somatics healer and inspirational speaker Courtney of The Sweetest Little Life helps women remember their souls’ purpose and return home in their bodies.Connect today to find out more! 916-809-3397