Do you really want to sleep like a baby?

Babies are not known for being good sleepers. They wake up all the time at odd hours and don't sleep long durations until they are older. So I'm not sure adults should aspire to, "sleep like a baby". So what should we be aiming for? 5 signs of great sleep

1. Falling asleep quickly: If you're able to fall asleep within 15-20 minutes of lying down, it's a sign that your body is ready for sleep and you're not carrying too much stress.

2. Sleeping through the night: Waking up frequently during the night can be a sign of poor sleep quality. If you're able to sleep soundly without waking up, it's a sign that your body is getting the rest it needs.

3. Feeling rested in the morning: If you wake up feeling refreshed and energized, it's a sign that you've had a good night's sleep. Feeling groggy or tired in the morning could indicate poor sleep quality.

4. Consistency: Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day can help regulate your body's internal clock, leading to better sleep quality over time.

5. Dreams: Having vivid dreams or being able to remember your dreams can be a sign of good sleep quality, as it indicates that your brain is processing information and going through the necessary stages of sleep.

If you're not feeling like this, maybe it's time to implement some sleep hygiene steps. Sleep hygiene refers to a set of habits and practices that promote good quality and quantity of sleep. Here are some steps to improve your sleep hygiene:

1. Stick to a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends.

2. Create a relaxing bedtime routine to signal to your body that it's time to sleep, such as taking a warm bath or reading a book.

3. Make sure your sleep environment is conducive to restful sleep, including a comfortable mattress, pillows, and blankets, and a cool, quiet, and dark room.

4. Limit exposure to screens and bright lights before bed, as they can disrupt the body's natural sleep-wake cycle.

5. Avoid consuming caffeine, alcohol, and large meals close to bedtime, as they can interfere with falling and staying asleep.

6. Stay physically active during the day, but avoid exercising too close to bedtime as it can make it harder to fall asleep.

7. Research has found that people who eat more servings of fruits and vegetables may sleep longer and get more restful sleep than those who eat fewer fruits and vegetables. Fruit and vegetable consumption has also been linked to better sleep quality and a reduced risk of insomnia.

By following these steps, you may be able to improve the quality and duration of your sleep, leading to better overall health and well-being.

ACTION STEP: Pick one of these tips above and try it out this week. Let me know how it's going for you!