Here are just a few additional thoughts about the physical aspects of energy management and sleep.
To sustain a brilliant lifestyle, there are four areas that must be addressed with regard to energy management: the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual quadrants. Each of these are similar to spark plugs in an engine. If any one of them is missing, the entire performance of the vehicle will be off. It’s no different for our bodies than it is for our automobiles. Tonight we will address the physical quadrant with regard to rest and renewal.
Physically, we need to do the obvious: eat well, sleep well, and follow our body’s natural internal rhythms. Studies have shown that our body responds best when it is given alternating times of rest and action throughout the day. Every 90 – 120 minutes our body alternates through a natural rest/action cycle. This is called an ultradian rhythm.
Taking a short break, even if it is just stretching at your desk, or taking a walk around the office (better yet outside!) will improve your performance and allow the body to remain at optimum performance throughout the day. There is such a thing as diminishing returns with your body. You can push it for a long time, but it won’t run as well. Everything suffers in the long run: health, peace of mind, and clarity, etc. I frequently work with health professionals, who confess they have not gone to the bathroom for hours, nor taken the time to eat or drink water during the day. Then they wonder why they burn out! If we don’t take care of ourselves, it is difficult to take care of others!
The majority of people I see in my office are dehydrated. Drinking small amounts of water throughout the day will hydrate our body. This simple action will increase both performance and clarity. Just as the battery needs water, our body needs water. This is particularly true in today’s fast food environment. Vegetables and fruit contain a great deal of water, it’s just that many folks don’t take the time to eat them in their natural form.
Similarly, maintaining a sleep cycle that works for you will also assist you in performing more effectively. Sleep is our body’s natural way of rejuvenating and restoring the natural wear and tear of the day. Looking at the bigger picture, in addition to the 90- 120 minute cycle, there is also the day/night cycle. Lack of sleep or restless sleep will impede both physical and mental performance. Working late at the office, worry, alcohol or even some foods will interrupt our body’s natural ability to sleep.
There are certain common sense approaches to sleeping as a means to promote increased energy. Worry and an overactive mind are two things that inhibit the ability to sleep. If you worry, stop doing the things that make you worry! Make a list of things you need to do the following day before you get ready for bed. This tells your conscious mind that everything is handled. Not capturing the things that are floating around will also create anxiety and cause restlessness. It’s similar to a computer with many open files. Too many, and the system crashes.
You will also tap into your creative mind if you write down a challenge or question prior to sleep. Keep a notebook by your bed for any ideas or solutions that come into your mind as you begin to doze off, or when you wake in the morning.
It’s also wise not to go to bed angry. The old saying “never go to bed angry with your spouse or child” holds lots of truth. Even if you decide to talk it out in the morning, there needs to be some action that will free the mind to let go and rest.
Another common sense approach to helping yourself get a good night’s sleep is something as simple as stretching, taking a bath or shower (let the day go down the drain) or doing something that leaves you feeling good (hormonal bliss …use your imagination!) This will leave you with a good feeling prior to sleep. For example, I keep a gratitude journal. I write down both things I am grateful for and those people I appreciate. It helps me end my day on a positive note.
Depression and anxiety are also causes for poor sleep. If you suspect that you or someone you love might be depressed, then consider a visit to your physician or other health care provider.
Lastly, it takes energy for us to sleep. If you have trouble sleeping, it may be an indication of a health challenge. Taking responsibility for your health, means checking things out with the appropriate health care providers.
If you’d like more, you can listen to the recorded call at 218- 936-1005. The Conference ID is 49675#
