Sleep N' Beauty

“People who say they sleep like babies often don’t have them.” Getting your beauty sleep can be tough once baby arrives. Not enough shut eye can lead to red eyes and more. Seeing dark circles under my eyes as I walked past a mirror was just the wake up call I needed to get serious about sleep. Committing to getting enough sleep is just as important as committing to good nutrition and exercise. Did you know that in addition to carrying around your little one, moms with newborns could be carrying an extra 11 pounds of weight if they get less than 5 hours of sleep? Studies show that there is a clear link between inadequate sleep and obesity, hypertension, type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

Experts believe that adults require seven to eight hours of sleep every night. In addition to the health risks you are more likely to have puffy, bloodshot eyes, dark under-eye circles and a pale washed-out complexion. During the period that is often referred to as “beauty sleep” our bodies have a surge in growth hormone which helps repair and rebuild body tissues like muscle and bone. Hormonal changes also boost blood flow to the skin, brightening it overnight. And even though you’re resting, your skin is hard at work. Studies show that cell turnover is 8 times faster at night, softening wrinkles. Getting gorgeous again is going to mean getting enough sleep.

Here Are Some Tips You Can Use for the Rest of Your Life:

Pass the Bottle
Nighttime feedings don’t have to be isolated to mom. Dad can enjoy bonding with baby over a bottle of formula or breastmilk allowing you to get a few extra hours of sleep.  

Go EASY
Eat, Activity, Sleep, You is a routine that can help moms develop a routine with your child. During your You time you should sleep when your child does. Resist doing chores while your child is asleep. Use this time to get some much needed zzz’s yourself. You will be more refreshed and better equipped to care for your child and that pile of laundry with some sleep. If you are too wound up to sleep simply lying down can be restorative.

Work it Girl
Putting baby in a stroller and walking for 20 minutes can do wonders for you. Exercising can help keep stress hormones from interfering with sleep. Make play time with your child exercise time for you. They will have a ball and you will reap the benefits.

Think Sooner than Later
Avoid large meals just before bedtime. Eat sooner in the evening as an active digestive system can disrupt sleep. Avoid caffeine, nicotine or other stimulants within four hours of bedtime.

Sleep Wash
Take a hot bath or shower right before bed. This will not only help get you into a relaxed state but should make you sleepy because your temperature will rise and then dip--and body temperature naturally drops when you get sleepy.