Often, in our busy and rushed lives, we look at sleep as something that needs to be done. Almost like a chore.

How many times have you looked at the clock in the evening, thought about all the things you had on your to-do list, and said, “I have got to get to sleep…”?

STOP thinking of sleep as something you have to “get to” and start thinking of something you “surrender to.”

That’s step one of this month’s focus on sleep on the Habit Thrive Podcast.

Today, we’re going to kick off the sleep conversation by talking about “Putting yourself to sleep.”

The month of November - and the fall season in particular - can make sleep more challenging due to the drop in light.

The drop in light decreases our serotonin; which affects not just our melatonin (the sleep chemical) but also our perception of pain and even food cravings - making this an especially challenging time!

So when we could be using sleep as a tool to recharge and rejuvenate our minds and bodies, nature and the season almost seems to be working against us.

Think back to when you were a kid and your mom or dad said it was time for bed.

Were you immediately under the covers, eyes closed, tucked in and snoozing obediently?

Of course not!

Back then, sleep was “boring.” It was much more fun to be awake. There was more to do.

And you would do almost anything to postpone lights out:

• Another glass of water
• Another story
• Checking the closet for monsters
• Questions
• Tears
• Anything

That’s how it was for me, at least.

But, at some point as I grew, I came to actually look forward to bedtime and appreciate the need for sleep.

This week, we are going to start planning for better sleep by thinking about how much sleep we want to get at night and using that goal to set a consistent bedtime.

Once you find consistency with your bedtime, you will begin to notice how it benefits you throughout the next day.

So make note of what works for you and what doesn’t, and start letting go with your sleep.  

And, for a little bedtime meditation try this variation of a Loving Kindness Meditation:

May I feel protected and safe.

May I feel content and at peace.

May my physical body support me with strength.

May my days and my nights unfold smoothly with ease.

Here’s to sweet dreams!

Lorrie xoxox

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