November is Sleep Comfort Month – the perfect time to focus on the importance and impact of sleep. It is no coincidence that November is also when the time change occurs and the days are shorter and darker; the mornings have a chill in the air. The first few days after the time change can be draining on us mental and physically, and yet sleep is something that greatly impacts both of these aspects of our health.
Sleep for Wellness
Sleep comfort is more than just taking the month to remember to get the recommended 7 to 8 hours of sleep a night. It is about the connection of sleep and wellness for us all. Sleep is directly tied to everything we do, from our performance at work to our relationships and our parenting. Many large cooperation’s in America are hiring sleep experts to help their employees improve their sleep, which in turns reduces illness and improves productivity and interpersonal relationships.
There is the same correlation between sleep and wellness for our children. Their ability to function at school in this ever-changing landscape of 2020 is tied to the quality and quantity of their sleep.
Sleep for Brain and Body
When we are stressed the first thing to go is our sleep. The interesting part about that is that quality sleep is a huge factor in reducing anxiety.
Dr. Walker a professor of neuroscience and psychology from U.C. Berkley conducted research on sleep patterns and habits and how they affect the body. He noted that “sleep is the single most effective thing you can do to reset your brain and body.” We all know this fact to be true, if we have had a few nights without sleep, one good night of rest can completely turn things around. Our children experience this as well. As we focus on Sleep Comfort Month, we need to focus on the mental and physical benefits of a good night’s sleep without frequent interruptions.
What to do When No One Can Sleep
As your body and your child’s body adjusts to the time change, it’s important to keep your routine. This may be challenging for the first few days but keep a schedule and try to stick to it. Routine is key to establishing proper sleep habits. Have the same few simple quiet activities before bedtime, like a bath, story time, and taking away electronics for the night. You should follow similar rules. Try to put the phone down and limit the light in the room. This is important to signal the brain that it is time for sleep.
If your child is having trouble sleeping, waking frequently in distress or fear, try out our Brave Knights Kit to help reduce the anxiety and stress of bedtime. You can use Sir William to listen to what is worrying your child exactly. The calming routine before bedtime is a great time to sit and listen to your child and let them give up those worries to their Brave Knight. Now, during Sleep Comfort Month, is the perfect time to introduce this.
Sleep is something that should not be a luxury, but instead a relaxing way of life, for parents and children alike. It is an essential part of maintaining a healthy life. Take the opportunity to focus on your sleep and that of your family’s during November’s Sleep Comfort Month.
Sweet Dreams!
