I often hear clients complain of sleep difficulties, especially those experiencing anxiety, and/or depression. Sometimes simpler is better.
This morning I came across an article by Hasan Merali entitled, “For better sleep, borrow the bedtime routine of a toddler.”* The title itself made me curious. Having raised two toddlers into adulthood, I wondered what it was about a toddler’s routine, this author was referring to.
Upon reading the article, I had to agree with Merali’s four simple suggestions:
Set a regular bedtime. (Regulate your circadian rhythm).
Take a bath. (Dilate your blood vessels to increase blood flow for relaxation).
Apply lotion. (Increase parasympathetic nervous system, and reduce your heart rate with massage).
Enjoy a relaxing activity. (Reduce your blood pressure with language based activities like reading and storytelling).
It works for me, I hope it works for all of you. Sleep is critical to sound mental health.*
Disclaimer:
Neither the publisher nor the author are engaged in rendering advice or services to the individual reader. The ideas, procedures, and suggestions continued in this blog are not intended as a substitute for consulting with a licensed mental health and or child development advisor. All matters regarding the health and development of your child require professional supervision. Neither the author nor the publisher shall be liable or responsible for any loss or damage allegedly arising from any information or suggestions in this blog.
*Merali, Hasan. "For better sleep, borrow the bedtime routine of a toddler." Popular Science. Dec. 5, 2021. https//apple.news/AuH1D0MewSV-sETgtiv7bug