The power of good sleep

Note: this is not me giving you medical advice if you don't sleep well. If you don't, you need to talk to your doctor. I'm just giving you my experience.

I am very fortunate that I keep a pretty regular sleep schedule. About 7-9 hours per night.

That wasn't always the case, though. A very long time ago (maybe 25 years), I had a good doctor who was trying to help me regulate my sleep. 

He really emphasized something called "sleep hygiene" (I know, sounds so clinical), but after practicing it for a while, it really changed things for me for the better.

For me, now that means all screens off at least an hour before bedtime.

I even limit my reading time during that period so as not to overstimulate my mind before sleeping.

I do take that time to sit or lie there in the quiet and practice some mindfulness and say my prayers. I include a quick review of what I plan to do tomorrow.

Oh yeah, I have a strict rule of no caffeine (mainly coffee) after noon.

And nothing fizzy as well before bed.

I do like to eat a light snack and a glass of whole milk before bed.

That's about it for me. I know everybody is different, but fortunately I'm a pretty good sleeper.

Why did I write about sleep today? I spent the day again DoorDashing and came home and took a quick nap. Really helped.

Thought I'd write about it.