One of the more surprising correlations I've been reading about lately are the recent studies that show how inadequate sleep can affect our appetites. Not enough sleep causes a chemical cascade in the brain that literally triggers our appetites. Thus, many people who find their appetites difficult to "control" may be not so much hungry as sleepy and not so much undisciplined as over-scheduled.
Sleep is frequently the first thing we cross off our lists. Many people I know sound as if they pride themselves on how few hours of sleep they can "get by on." And yet, by denying themselves time to rest, recuperate and refresh, these people are actually sabotaging themselves.
Adequate sleep is crucial for good health. Making sure you get enough sleep for you should be a top priority and possibly the perfect place to begin any wellness regimen. Naps count -if you can't get as much as you need at night, schedule time for a nap. Don't apologize to anyone for your need to nap, either - a fifteen or twenty minute power nap and you'll be far more productive if you give in to your need for sleep than if you rely on food, caffiene or other substitutes to make up for the deficit.
Sleep is frequently the first thing we cross off our lists. Many people I know sound as if they pride themselves on how few hours of sleep they can "get by on." And yet, by denying themselves time to rest, recuperate and refresh, these people are actually sabotaging themselves.
Adequate sleep is crucial for good health. Making sure you get enough sleep for you should be a top priority and possibly the perfect place to begin any wellness regimen. Naps count -if you can't get as much as you need at night, schedule time for a nap. Don't apologize to anyone for your need to nap, either - a fifteen or twenty minute power nap and you'll be far more productive if you give in to your need for sleep than if you rely on food, caffiene or other substitutes to make up for the deficit.
