Slumber in Style: Embracing the Magic of Beauty Sleep*

We all know sleep is mandatory. Yet we tell ourselves that whatever needs to get done in our waking hours matters more than a good night’s sleep. Ridiculous. Ladies, it’s not called beauty sleep for nothing.

If we’re going to focus on rejuvenation — and we are — a healthy sleep routine tops the list. Just because you’re snoring away doesn’t mean your body isn’t accomplishing major work. Everyone looks better after a good night’s sleep, but the brain doesn’t shut down while you rest. It reaches a deeper level of consciousness — the REM dream state.

If your REM sleep is disrupted for even one night, your body falls out of its normal circadian rhythm. Poor sleep cycles can lead to grogginess, lack of concentration, excess hunger, a weakened immune system, and crankiness — oh, the list goes on. And as I mentioned, it isn’t pretty.

When it comes to problem solving, sleep may be the secret to success. Artists have long sensed the connection between creativity and sleep, and there’s scientific evidence that sleep helps organize and link the facts we know and the things we experience, so we’re better able to solve problems when we wake. While you sleep, your brain thinks outside the box.

According to the article “Memory Process and the Function of Sleep” (Journal of Theoretics, 2007), thoughts are held in temporary memory until you sleep. Valuable new information and skills are added to long-term memory as you rest.

And then there’s growth hormone, released from the pituitary gland only during sleep. It strengthens bones, creates new muscle cells, helps us lose body fat, increases protein synthesis, supports the internal organs, aids the pancreas and insulin production, and stimulates the immune system.

Solid, healthy sleep equals all kinds of rejuvenation.

How to set up a good night’s sleep

• Wind down with soothing music — it can help you fall asleep faster, wake less often, and feel more rested.
• Keep a consistent bedtime — go to bed at about the same time every night. Around 10:00 pm is ideal.
• Create a pre-sleep ritual — make it more than brushing your teeth. Read something inspirational, reflect on gratitude, enjoy soothing aromatherapy.
• Move during the day — too little activity can leave you restless at night.
• Avoid snacks, caffeine, and alcohol before bed — they all interfere with healthy sleep.

Repeat after me: sleep is good. Sleep is good. Sleep is good. Are we all clear? You might want to start fluffing your pillow now.