I have never been one to sleep a great deal. Perhaps it is my anxiety that prevents me from sleeping. I once had panic attacks if I “slept in” later than 7 am. I am a morning person. So much so, I can be annoying at times. If you’ve seen me before or on a run, you’ll will be greeted with a loud good morning and quite possibly a hug. If you haven’t, I am fighting the urge. Who the hell has that much energy before the sun comes up?
I reached a point where I was only sleeping 4 hours a night. While this may work for some and be okay every now and again, I was consistently waking up exhausted and relying on numerous cups of caffeine to get me through my day. This cycle went on for far too long and it drained me. I couldn’t think, word finding was difficult (I thought I was having a stroke), dark circles, ate like shit, workouts were shit. I needed a nap within 30-60 minutes of finishing a shorter run. It was a downward spiral. At one point there were questions around the function of my adrenal glands and if they were working.
This training season, I have recommitted to making sleep a priority. I once struggled with skipping workouts if I was exhausted when my alarm sounded. Initially, I felt lazy and carried guilt that I had a coach and wasn’t following the plan. Now, without fail, I’ll skip at least 1 workout every 4 weeks to allow my body to rest. Being a physical therapist, I am one to preach movement. So I don’t say this lightly, but I can make a strong case as to why sleep is more important than exercise. If you’re rested, get your ass out the door and move. If you’re completely exhausted, your body is giving you a sign. Change it up. Go for a walk. Take a yoga class you have been thinking about.
Here are a few of the benefits I’ve experienced:
- Clearer thinking
- Bouncier legs = better workout = nailing workout
- Rested tissues = reduced injury rate
- Better food choices
- Mood stability
- Lower heart rate
- Being present during the day
Key to a good night’s sleep:
- No electronics 30 minutes before bed
- Darkness
- Cool Temperatures
- No caffeine later than 2 pm
- Comfortable bedding
- Weighted blanket
Cheers!