6 Tips to Achieve Great Sleep for Weight Loss

Well the topic here on this blog is weight loss, so how do we incorporate proper sleep methods in with achieving weight loss and fitness goals. It's simple really. Having the proper amount of sleep allows our minds and bodies to repair and prepare for the day to come. Most of us need roughly eight hours of sleep, but some can handle less, and some need more.

Being rested properly will allow us to be more alert, aware, and energized for the day. Having these qualities will allow us to stay focused on our fitness routines and weight loss goals. Also, being deprived of sleep slows our immune system, and increases levels of stress. These two alone contribute to weight gain, so being well rested every night is a great weight loss technique itself.

First of all, you must create a relaxed environment that is only used for sleeping in your bedroom. Try using colors that aren't quite as bright, and if possible, do not watch tv in your room. Doing these things will allow your mind to associate your room as a calm and relaxed place that is meant only for sleeping.

Next, you should not eat at least two hours before you plan to go to bed. Doing this will not necessarily help you lose weight, but it will allow you to wind down and not have active digesting going on when you are trying to sleep. Eating provides you with energy, and eating close to bed time could make it difficult for you to wind down and get to sleep.

Try taking a warm bath or shower and also sleep in clean soft bed sheets and blankets. Also try to find the best position in which you sleep best with. Try experimenting for a few nights until you discover what works best for you.

One of my personal favorites is to listen to relaxing and soothing music as I am winding down to head to bed. I personally like to listen to hootie and the blowfish; a couple of their songs are relaxing, and Darius has a great soothing voice.

Another great tip for achieving good sleep is to not do anything highly active or adrenaline filled too close to bed. Doing things like working out and watching action packed movies can increase your heart rate and also make you think too much as you are trying to doze off.

Finally, try a flex and relax routine as you lay in bed at night. To do this, you simply flex all the muscles in your body, or flex different muscle groups and rotate around your body. You then hold these flexxes for about 5 seconds and then relax your muscles. This is a great method to simply relax your mind and body to help you fall asleep.

There you have it, 6 great tips to help you get to sleep at night and help contribute toward weight loss. Being properly rested allows us to accomplish more and stay focused on our fitness and health goals. I hope you enjoyed this article, and I will be back very soon with the next weight loss topic. See ya!