Sleep Better During the Holidays

December brings the holidays, that unique time of year where you get to eat tons of delicious foods, spend time with your relatives, watch movies and decorate the tree.

There is no reason to let the holidays rob you of your slumber. We’ve compiled some simple, yet overlooked tips to help you sleep soundly through all the holiday chaos.

• Don't overload yourself: Lean in on family to help make things happen. Ensure holiday tasks and chores are a family affair. If you’re making the main meal, assign desserts to someone else. Get the kids to help with the cleaning or decorating. Family is there to support and the holidays are a perfect time to receive that from them.
• Keep your regular sleep schedule: It's easy to feel like it's worth it to stay up late during the holidays to catch up with friends and family who may have extra time, but those late nights can wreak havoc on your sleep schedule. It’s fine to stay up a little late during the holidays, but try to limit it to no more than an hour off of your regular schedule.
• Don't overdo the snacking, particularly at night: Though, one of the best parts of the holidays is all of that delicious food, be mindful of not overindulging as that food is typically high sugar and high carb. Foods that are high in sugar can keep you awake longer at night, and foods high in processed carbs can leave you feeling slow during the day. So, try to load up on more fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains.
• Watch your alcohol intake: With all the eggnog and hot-buttered rum in circulation, it's easy to want more than a drink or two. Alcohol does make you drowsy and can help you fall asleep faster, but it also disturbs your sleep and diminishes its quality. Alcohol also decreases the amount of REM sleep you get.

Add these simple tips into your holidays this season and you’ll be sure to enjoy the time with family and friends while being well-rested each night.

Want more? Read: Use the Holidays to Boost Your Relationship