Sleep! Tips during busy seasons

We all know how busy we can get.  Especially during busy seasons, we as parents and caregivers can find ourselves running around until we're ragged.  We're not getting enough sleep and not feeling rested in the morning.  We know when we're exhausted we don't do our best parenting.  When we are well rested we have a better mood, more patience, more creativity, and we can more easily find joy in our families. 
So, here are a few tips to make sure you take care of yourself and your sleep:

1.  Know yourself and how much sleep YOU need to feel rested in the morning.  Set expectations in your home with your family that you are going to aim to take care of yourself and get enough sleep by going to bed at your determined time.  Then, ask for help where you need it.  Maybe that means asking your spouse or partner to swap nights taking care of a child who's teething, or staying up to make sure your teenager is home and safe.
2. Give yourself 15-20 minutes of quiet time before bed.  Don't race around the house doing "one more thing" all the way up until your head hits the pillow.  We need time to unwind.  Consider using that time to read a book, listening to peaceful music, pray or meditate, and resist using the time to scroll on your phone. 
4. If your mind races as you try to fall asleep, keep a notebook by your bed to write down the things you are worried you'll forget, then you can put those things out of your mind for the night. 
3. Plan for sleeping when you travel to visit family.  Do you need to bring ear plugs, a noise machine, eye covering, a favorite pillow?

Sleep is a must.  I  have a favorite natural sleep spray that ensures a great nights sleep on nights when I struggle to fall asleep or wake up in the middle of the night and can't fall back asleep.   Some people love a warm cup of herbal tea before bed.  Find what works for you.  You deserve to feel rested when you wake up.

Want someone to talk to, help you make a self-care plan or work through struggles in your home?  Contact me.  I'd love to connect. 

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