New Year’s Resolution-Better Self-Care

Trouble Sleeping?

More and more research is coming out that the use of electronics near bedtime can interfere with sleep.  Light is considered one of the strongest factors affecting the body’s circadian clock, which regulates the sleep-wake cycle.  Melatonin is suppose to be highest at night to help induce sleep.  However, light can suppress melatonin and thus, disrupt the body’s circadian cycle.

So, if you are having trouble sleeping, monitor your use of anything with a light emitting screen: TV, lap top, cell phone, electronic reading device, etc.  The brighter the light and the closer you hold it to your eyes (as we are apt to do with cell phones) the more potentially disruptive the light can be to your whole system.

A poor night’s sleep can affect everything the next day:  your mood, your focus, your energy.  Do yourself a favor and leave at least 1-2 hours before bedtime free from electronics.  Give yourself a few days to see if your melatonin begins to kick back into gear and you have better sleep.

For other self-care tips, please visit the EAP and let a counselor assist you in some new ideas that are customized for YOU.  Make 2015 the year you finally achieve this New Year’s Resolution!

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