Healthy sleep patterns are crucial in early sobriety. Developing a routine around our sleep cycles makes it easier for us to reap the benefits of our time asleep. The benefits of healthy sleep patterns cannot be understated. They are a vital component of a healthy lifestyle and are essential for folks in recovery. At Oceanfront Recovery’s residential treatment program in Laguna Beach, CA, we understand the importance of healthy sleep patterns for those in recovery. We want to ensure that our clients get the rest and relaxation they need to thrive in the long run.
Benefits of Healthy Sleep Patterns
Healthy sleep patterns can lead to the following:
- Improved concentration and focus
- Enhanced physical and mental well-being
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Improved mood and emotional regulation
- Enhanced memory formation, recall, and retention
- Better decision-making abilities
- Reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other medical conditions
- Improved productivity throughout the day
- Regular circadian rhythms
At Oceanfront Recovery, we emphasize the importance of regular and healthy sleep patterns as a major part of our residential treatment program. Our clients gain valuable insight into the power of their circadian rhythms and how to ensure they get the rest and relaxation needed for a successful recovery.
4 Tips for Healthy Sleeping Patterns
To feel refreshed and recharged, consider these healthy sleeping tips:
Avoid Caffeine and Nicotine
It seems like a no-brainer, but many people in early recovery use caffeine and nicotine often as a way to counteract their lower energy levels. Aside from the obvious dangers of these chemicals, they strongly interfere with our ability to fall asleep at an appropriate time.
Make Your Bedroom into a Relaxing Space
Light, noise, and even temperature can keep us from falling asleep or staying asleep through the night. Try moving anything distracting that emits light or noise into another room. Scientists have found that a cool temperature, between 60 and 75 degrees, is ideal. There are many options—white noise, blackout curtains, or a sleep mask can all help signal to your brain that it’s time to fall asleep.
Go to Sleep and Wake Up at the Same Time Every Day
Our bodies have a 24-hour internal clock determining our sleeping and waking patterns. This pattern is known as the “circadian rhythm.” Your circadian rhythm works best when you have regular sleep habits, like going to bed at night and waking up around the exact times from day to day. If we can go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day, we are not creating a conflict with the natural sleep pattern of our body and will not feel drowsy or sluggish during our waking hours.
Try Mediation or Relaxing Activities Before Bed
Activities like yoga and meditation can help:
- Lower blood pressure
- Slow our breathing
- Reduce the stress of the day
The type of deep, diaphragmatic breathing from mediation signals to your brain that your body is relaxed, helping you reach a state of calmness necessary for deep, relaxing sleep. Avoid stressful, stimulating activities—doing work, discussing emotional issues. Physically and psychologically,y stressful activities can cause the body to secrete the stress hormone cortisol, associated with increasing alertness.
Discover Restful Nights at Oceanfront Recovery
Recovery is all about healing the mind, body, and spirit. We don’t just focus on abstinence from substances but on developing a well-rounded lifestyle in recovery. At Oceanfront Recovery’s residential treatment program, our clients are encouraged to develop healthy sleep habits that can carry them through the long term. We work with our clients to cultivate a positive, healing environment and sleep schedule that can foster their recovery journey and provide a foundation for future success. Oceanfront Recovery offers the chance to recover a beautiful beachfront environment. Contact us today at 877.296.7477 to learn about a healthier future.