Student Wellness Tip of the Week: Are You Getting Enough Rest? Make Over Your Mind through Sleeping

10/25/11

Contributed by Nancy Reynolds

As college students, we must be sure to get enough sleep to be on our "A-game" (literally). Though this may be difficult, make it a priority to get at least 7 hours of sleep every night. Sleeping 7 to 9 hours a night not only helps prevent those dark circles under the eyes, but it allows the entire body to function at its best. Check out the benefits below of being well rested and gain some tips on how to improve your "sleep hygiene." They'll take you far beyond what you could have dreamed...

Some benefits of a good night’s sleep:

Sharpens attention span and improves memory
Lowers stress levels
Promotes creativity and imagination
Controls hunger
Helps prevent illness
Can give you a more attractive appearance
Decreases chance of accidents
Lowers risk for depression, increasing quality of life

Tips for a Better Night of Sleep

Wash your sheets at least once a week. Sprinkle sheets and pillowcases with lavender-infused water to relax.
Make sure your pillow supports your head and neck.
Gently stretch before getting in bed.
Turn off electronics (including laptop and TV) at least 30 minutes before bedtime. If you need your cell phone, turn it on silent.
Drink a glass of warm milk, eat a handful of walnuts, or a small banana before bed for their sleep-inducing amino acid tryptophan.

For more information about sleep:

Attend the Wellness Wednesday program, "The Top Five Most Common Sleep Mistakes," on Wed. Nov. 2nd, noon-12:50pm in the Taughannock Falls Room, 3rd floor, Campus Center.

Visit the Center for Health Promotion website section on sleep.

Make an appointment at Hammond Health Center, to talk with a medical provider.

Submitted by: Maria Behrens '12

Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodations should contact Nancy Reynolds at nreynolds@ithaca.edu or (607) 274-7933. We ask that requests for accommodations be made as soon as possible.

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