Usually, we associate getting fit with getting active because it’s only when we’re running around during the day that we burn off those calories, are capable of losing weight and can strengthen our bodies, right? Wrong. In fact, one of the key times in which we can get fit is actually when we’re horizontal. Nope, I’m not talking about leg lifts or chin ups. (Phew, says you.) I’m talking about night-time, when we’re getting our snooze on.
Getting enough, good-quality sleep is one of the best things we can do for our bodies and our minds. It can improve our memory, help us to lose weight, and reduce anxiety. It even lets us live longer! Sleeping properly makes us happier, healthier people and a little bit better at everything we do. And yep, that includes working out.
Here’s how sleep can help you become a workout machine… (Not literally. That’d be weird.)
Sleeping boosts your energy
If you’ve had a bad night’s sleep, the last thing you want to do is work out. Even though you know it’ll make you feel much better, you just don’t have the energy to take that first important step. When you’re well-rested, however, the insulin in your body gets converted into glucose and voila! Energy on tap. You’ll be grabbing those running shoes instead of slapping the snooze button in no time at all.
Oh, and sleeping properly has also been shown to lower blood sugar levels, which aids a better night’s sleep thereafter. And you can say goodbye to unwelcome sugar crashes or the cravings you normally get for fatty foods and caffeinated drinks when you’re tired. Instead, you’ll be capable of making healthier choices that help you in your mission to stay in shape. Good news all round.
Sleeping makes you stronger
As adults, we’re advised to get 7–9 hours of good-quality sleep per night. Why? Well, because this healing and resting time is what boosts the immune system – basically turning us into Superman. Sleep improves your digestive system and circulation, too. So you’ll be less likely to pick up every nasty cold and bug around and much fitter to focus on a healthier lifestyle instead. Yay! Now that you’ve seen how good sleep is for you and for your capacity to work out, I’m gonna let you in on a little secret…
Your mattress matters
You’ll spend thousands on clothes, entertainment, and vacations over the course of your life. Yet when it comes to one of the most important activities you’ll ever do – sleeping – you tend to cut corners. Why is that?! After all, if you’re buying a car you want one that’s safe, reliable and durable. And it should be no different when it comes to choosing a mattress.
We’re all different. And one mattress cannot be expected to fit all. That’s why a memory foam mattress is a great idea; designed to suit your body, it’ll also support your lifestyle – however hectic it may be! There are so many different kinds of mattresses out there it can be hard to choose. And the decision is made even tougher by the fact that it is a bit of an investment…so you don’t want to be shelling out the cash on the wrong type.
Trust me on this. Having the right support under your body will make a big difference to your sleep cycle, your health and your overall lifestyle. So whether it’s finding the perfect mattress or the pillow that dreams are made of, take your time. Do a Goldilocks on it and find one that’s ‘just right’! Here’s a handy guide to get you started before you hit the shops.
Create a pre-bedtime ‘workout’
Just like you have steps you always take before working out – like making a green juice, warming up or creating that perfect playlist – try setting a routine in place before you go to bed. Switch off electronics, like laptops and tvs, about an hour before you hit the sack. That way, your mind will start relaxing instead of being overstimulated when it’s time to settle down. To relax your body as well as your mind, try a gentle yin yoga class, listen to a guided meditation or have a long soak in the bath. Whatever works to get you bound for Sleepytown! Once you’ve taken these steps and fall onto your new, more supportive mattress, you’ll be ready for a great night’s sleep – and a healthier you come morning.
Sweet dreams!
