Consent Preferences

sleep and emotional wellbeing

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Sleep Hygiene: Understanding & Coping With Sleep Debt

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Sleep Hygiene: Understanding & Coping With Sleep Debt

Sleep is a crucial part of our lives, and it’s essential for good health. However, in today’s fast-paced society, it’s easy to get caught up in a cycle of sleep debt.  Sleep debt is a term used to describe the cumulative effect of not getting enough sleep over time. This can happen if we consistently go to bed late and wake up early, or if we have poor sleep quality. When we don’t get enough sleep, our bodies start to accumulate a sleep debt, which can lead to a range of physical and mental health problems.

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The Connection Between Sleep & Mental Health

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The Connection Between Sleep & Mental Health

Why is sleep so important? Sleep is a critical aspect of our overall wellbeing both physically & mentally. There are two major phases of brain activity during sleep that we cycle through every night. These are called Non-Rapid Eye Movement (NREM) & Rapid Eye Movement (REM). During NREM sleep, the brain slows down which results in decreased eye movement & muscle activity. This is when the brain is preparing the mind & body to enter into a state of deep sleep. About 1-2 hours after NREM, we enter into REM sleep. This is when activity in the brain increases at a rapid speed & usually results in vivid dreaming! Throughout the night we go in & out of these two phases of sleep.

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Get Good Sleep: Tips for Improving Sleep Hygiene

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Get Good Sleep: Tips for Improving Sleep Hygiene

Sleep is essential and it allows your body and mind to recharge, to feel refreshed and alert. Good sleep hygiene helps the body remain healthy and improves your immune system. Without proper sleep, the brain can not function properly. Keep reading for tips on getting better sleep.

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Your Body: The Doorway To Your Mental Health

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Your Body: The Doorway To Your Mental Health

Using your body to get your “foot in the door” with your mood regulation can be done in many ways. These include breathing techniques, balanced sleeping and eating habits, soothing sensory-based skills, using open and confident body language, and using exercise and exhausting your muscles to allow your brain’s natural endorphins to regulate emotions. For those of you who feel that you cannot yet find an effective coping skill for your challenging thoughts and feelings, consider starting with your body first. Discuss with your therapist or trusted supports as to what behavior changes may effectively lead to desired changes in moods and thoughts, and then, allow the new behavior to have an impact.