6 TIPS TO GET SLEEP
BACK ON TRACK
Family Features
For many people, changing seasons are about resetting
routines and adjusting to a different pace of life. With
fall activities in full swing, families should be intentional
about their sleep routines to avoid missing the magical
moments ahead.
According to Sleep-
Score, people lose an average
of 15 1/2 hours of
sleep (about 10 minutes
each night) during summer
months due to the
"summer sleep slump."
Addressing this challenge,
Natrol, a leading
sleep, mood and stress supplement brand, along with behavioral
sleep specialist Shelby Harris, intend to help people
gain control over their sleep and mood to be more present
each day.
"Sleep is supposed to help you live your day to the fullest,"
Harris said. "There are smart behavioral shifts you can
make to maximize your sleep routine this fall, and sometimes
that can include melatonin supplements. I always say,
'If you are taking a sleep aid that makes you sleepy throughout
the day, what is the point of taking it?'"
Harris recommends these easy tips to improve your sleep
routine.
Consider Sleep Cycle Changes - Before trying to reset routines,
consider the changes you're hoping to make. Track
the sleep you're getting now and pay attention to factors
that may hinder your current sleep cycle, from struggling
to fall asleep to tossing and turning during the night, then
think about the ways you might be able to improve those
hindrances.
Make Adjustments Gradually - Remember, changes don't
happen overnight. For many people, the solution is as simple
as going to bed earlier. Rather than trying to make up that
extra 30 minutes immediately, it's often helpful to slowly
adjust routines. Try starting your bedtime ritual 5 minutes
earlier each night to work toward your goal.
Set Aside Time to Unwind - Despite the hectic nature of
fall schedules, it's important to prioritize time to unwind before
bed. Whether it's reading a book, meditating or finding
another slow-paced activity you enjoy, a calming, screenless
way to slow your mind may help you fall asleep quicker.
Be Thoughtful About Light Exposure - It may seem obvious,
but too much light exposure (indoor and out) at night
can cause sleep issues. Be mindful of your own comfort
by ensuring TVs and computers are powered down, smartphones
are set aside, outdoor lights are off and curtains are
drawn. Keeping the room dark can make a big difference
when trying to fall and stay asleep throughout the night.
Turn to a Drug-Free Sleep Aid Supplement - If you follow
consistently good bedtime habits but still have trouble
falling asleep, try a low-milligram melatonin supplement,
like those from Natrol, which are designed to help people
sleep better so they can feel well-rested and ready to take
on the day.†
"Melatonin is not a one-stop solution to help get your sleep
back on track," Harris said. "If you are taking melatonin,
finding a brand with USP Verified options, like Natrol's
5MG Fast Dissolve Tablets, for example, is extremely important."
Prioritize Your Wake-Up Routine - That snooze button
might be tempting, but those extra few minutes of sleep
may do more harm than good. Ensure you wake up feeling
refreshed by sticking to a consistent sleep cycle. Whether
it's a morning stretch or simply forcing your feet to hit the
floor, prioritizing movement and exposure to light can help
kickstart the day.
Find more ways to help get your sleep back on track by
visiting Natrol.com.
†These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and
Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose,
treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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