3 Insights on the Benefits of High Quality Sleep

A good night’s rest is so important for each of us, especially in the shaky, turbulent and uncertain times in which we live. The old adage: “Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise,” has not lasted this long in our culture without grounds.  Numerous benefits determined by research and experience, have been shown to come from good quality sleep; among them are a greater sense of calmness, mood boosts, healing, and insights into the complex problems in our lives. 

According to studies by health experts, it’s important to develop a regular sleep schedule. The best times may require some research and experimentation, but I recommend following the natural light and darkness patterns of night and day when you can.  I read somewhere that a person should awaken no later than 8:00 am. Anyway, ideally I like to go to bed before 10:00 and wake up between 6 and 7:30am at the latest (I don’t always achieve that.). In addition to the sunlight which helps awaken us in the mornings, the noises of work activities and traffic in the cities can awaken us.  Personally, at 50 something, I find I typically need a good 8 - 10 hours of sleep to feel good these days.

Experts agree on many advantages of deep, restful sleep. According to an online article by Whitehall of Deerfield Healthcare, sleep helps us in so many ways.  Healing, relaxing the heartbeat and body’s systems, fighting germs are some of the advantages. The article goes on to say, “During sleep, a higher level of collagen is released into the body. Collagen proteins help strengthen skin cells and repair those that are damaged. This is important for the healing process. As a side benefit, collagen reduces wrinkles and helps skin look younger.”  Getting good rest may require changes to your day, such as dietary changes, exercise, and pain control, but it’s very well worth the effort.

I definitely feel the effects of a good night's rest when I get it.  I feel a lot more upbeat, energized, and relaxed. I’m less likely to have “emotional firestorms” at the slightest provocation.  Also, my dreams will sometimes give me insights into situations happening in real life. For example, if I have a dream involving relationships or romance, it’s often an indication that I need to check in with my husband about some things. 

Finally, sometimes I’ll awaken to the answer to what I've been wondering about for awhile.  For instance, sometimes I wonder about by purpose, my gifting, what should be my next move?  Well this morning after a good nights’ sleep including dreams and deep rest, I woke up to reminders about writing and continuing to write, and to look into career changes.  In fact, one of the first things coming to mind was to write about the importance of good sleep and how it gives us deeper insights into our lives. On another note, my daughter who loves to travel, said she woke up this morning from a fun exciting long dream of her traveling throughout Europe.

In conclusion, I can’t stress enough the importance of sleep for us to thrive.  Below, I will list some supplements and foods I have used to assist with sleep.  Some work at a gut level and help the gut to relax.  Others work at a head and brain level.  Please research all these items for yourself, and verify with experts on the correct amounts to take if you decide to try them.

Apple Cider Vinegar, unfiltered organic

Ginger paste

Chamomile Tea

Magnesium liquid drop supplement

Melatonin