Cats know how important sleep is.

The tip for day 21 of  31 Days of Healthy Ways to Enjoy the Holidays More is to sleep in!  If you’re reading this, then you’re probably already up so sleep in tomorrow, ok?  If you can’t sleep in, then try to fit in some naps this weekend.

There’s no better way to recharge and recoup from the stresses of the holiday season than getting a good night’s sleep.  Sleeping is when our body repairs itself and if you’re not getting enough you may increase your risk of cardiovascular issues and even gain weight. Plus, sleeping just feels good, especially when it’s so cold out!

If you’re someone who has trouble falling asleep, try taking a warm bath or shower with lavender oil shortly before bedtime.  The drop in body temperature when you get out of the shower will let your body know that it’s time for bed.  It also helps to keep the temperature in your bedroom cool.  Turn off electronics at least an hour before bed and you know the blank journal you’ve been keeping next to the bed for your gratitude assignment from Day 19? Take a few minutes to jot down any last minute worries or things that belong on your to do list.  This will free your mind to rest.  If you thoughts about what you need to do the next day floating into your head when you first turn off the light, get up and jot those down too.  It really helps!

Don’t waste any of your time feeling guilty about sleeping in.  Whether you stayed in bed until 8am or 11am, enjoy it, relish it and remember that you’re giving your body something it desperately needs.