Sleep is a big issue among teens. I know that we stay up all night doing our homework and then end up sleeping five hours or less because we don’t want to be late for school. Of course, the main reason for that could be procrastination, job, volunteering, sports or anything else that you has to be done after school. Below are some quick fixes to the inevitable all-nighters.
We sleep late because our teenage bodies are naturally designed to go to bed late and wake up early. This biological programming sets that body alarm clock that keeps us going because our bodies are used to it. We release melatonin (the sleep hormone) deeper into the day than adults do. Which is why we don’t get tired until 11 p.m. It’s hard to fit in eight hours of sleep, which seems like an unrealistic amount to us. However, without eight hours of sleep, there are many negative effects which you may have already heard of, like depression, greater use of caffeine, alcohol, drug use, moodiness, less concentration, unfit, bad performance, and lower grades. Thus everyone should get the snooze-on!
Stick to a schedule
Make sure that you wake up every day at the same time. My friend actually told me that by doing that she was able to naturally wake up on time and catch the bus, even though she forgot to set the alarm the night before. Also, every night make sure you get to sleep at the same time or at least a half an hour before or after that time. This is something that is vital, because it helps to regulate your sleep schedule as well as the body clock. Naps should be one hour, maximum. When you sleep on the weekends, make sure that you don’t sleep longer than you do usually or longer than two hours.
Set the mood
Set a curfew for yourself that would be something along the lines of not using your phone, tv or computer two hours before going to bed. I know that sounds harsh, but you can read a book, do your homework, read a magazine, paint your nails, write in a journal, or paint. Also you could take a nice relaxing bath, as well as dim the lights.
Keep in mind your overall health
This is something you probably have heard many times before, but alcohol, smoking, and lack of exercise all can take a toll on your health. Make sure that you try your best to maintain a proper, rhythmic, and healthy lifestyle. Of course, this is something that will not just help you sleep better, but will make your overall health A+. Of course if you cannot let go of coffee, try to substitute it with caffeinated teas like green tea, not soda and chocolate. Green tea is great for the mind, body, and spirit so head on down to your grocery store and give it a try! I addition try to drink caffeinated drinks before the evening or afternoon.
These breakfast ideas can also be made at night. So if you need to catch the bus, breakfast can be on the go. Plus you wont be wasting money an time at a café to get some food.
Got that all? Good—now go to bed!
