Getting enough rest as a parent is easier said than done. Each day is filled with taking care of the kids, running the home, and many other things. No matter how much you rest, you feel like you’re never well-rested. We know that feeling. To help make things better, we will show you things you can do to feel better rested as a parent.
Our bodies need enough rest to repair and rebuild. Not getting enough quality rest can make you easily tired, impatient, and irritable. This will negatively impact the kids and family as a whole, not to talk of your health! When you don’t get enough rest, your body doesn’t get the opportunity to repair and recharge for another day. So, if you want to know how to feel better rested as a parent, keep reading.
Things To Do To Feel Better Rested As A Parent
Life as a parent is hectic, and getting enough rest is necessary to function well. You can improve the quality of your rest and feel better. Here are 6 things you can do to feel better rested as a parent.
Have a nighttime routine
Having a nighttime routine will help you make the most of your sleep. You may be wondering what a routine has to do with feeling better rested. First, it will help your child sleep better. And when your child sleeps well, you sleep well too. A routine establishes predictability. This helps you and your child because you know what comes next. Your body will be able to adapt to nighttime better.
Your nighttime routine should consist of activities that relax your body. It will help your body prepare for sleep better. You can do things like having a warm bath, going around the house, reading a book, turning the lights off, drawing the blinds, exercising, etc. Be consistent with whatever you do. When you are consistent, your body will automatically know what’s next and prepare you for sleep.
Don’t take stimulants before bed
The worst thing you can take is stimulants before going to bed. They will keep you turning and tossing in bed. If at all you fall asleep, it will be a fitful one. Ditch the coffee, wine, and energy drinks hours before bed, so they don’t affect your sleep. If you want to drink something, have a glass of warm milk instead.
Use anti-snoring devices for better sleep
Snoring is nothing strange. Just about anyone snores occasionally. However, snoring frequently might degrade the quality of your sleep. Snoring causes problems like daytime fatigue and irritability. But there is a solution that will give you the best night’s sleep if you snore a lot. You can use anti-snoring devices. Anti-snoring devices widen your airway by bringing your tongue or lower jaw forward as you sleep. Some anti-snoring devices go into the nostrils as well. It is best to consult with your doctor to know the cause of your snoring and the best anti-snoring device you should get.
Avoid screens before bed
We understand you want to catch up on your favourite shows on tv, or you just want to surf the net. It’s been a long day, and you just want to unwind and have some time to yourself. But, scrolling through your phone or watching something on your laptop or television decreases the quality of your rest.
These devices filter blue light, making your brain think it is still daytime. So, what happens? You sleep late and wake up late, still not fully rested. For some people, the blue light from screens causes headaches, which doesn’t make for a good night’s rest. So do yourself a favour and do away with the screens before bedtime.
Go for a walk
Exercising can help you feel better rested. It is understandable that as a parent, you may not have the time to go hard in the gym. Or you’re just not the type to work out. Good news then! Just go for a walk! Walking is the best form of exercise. It will help you relax and prepare you for a good night’s rest. You can listen to your favourite tracks or podcasts while at it, so you don’t feel like you’re just walking aimlessly.
Meditate
There are those nights when you can’t sleep. Your thoughts are running wild and loud. You’re tossing and turning, and when you do sleep, it’s fitful. In situations like this, try meditating. It will help quieten the mind and enhance inner peace, making the body more relaxed. You can also include meditation as part of your nighttime routine. It will help you sleep better and feel well-rested.
Being a parent is not an easy job. But it doesn’t mean you have to compromise on your rest and sleep. Having enough rest will keep you energized for your daily activities. So, it is necessary to improve the quality of your rest. The tips above will help you feel better rested as a parent. Implement these tips and watch the quality of your rest get better.
