Good sleep is one of the most powerful tools for overall well-being, yet it’s often overlooked. Quality rest supports mental clarity, emotional balance, and physical recovery. From my own experience, a few things make a real difference in how well I sleep. You may have your own list, but here’s what works for me:
- Letting the evening wind down naturally—I try to reduce communication and avoid anything too stimulating.
- Gentle movement, nothing too activating—A few calming stretches work best for me.
- Last meal about three hours before bed—I like to give my body some time to digest before lying down.
- Last fluids (large amounts) about two hours before bed—This prevents me from waking up for a trip to the bathroom, which can make it harder to fall back asleep. This includes alcohol! This really wreaks havoc on my rest if consumed close to bedtime.
- Lights Out—Turning off the lights helps signal to my body that it’s time to rest, making it easier to unwind and fall asleep naturally.
I notice the difference when I give my sleep the same attention I give to movement and nutrition. After a good night’s rest, I feel more present, clear-headed, and better able to handle whatever the day brings. Prioritizing sleep helps set you up to feel your best every day.
And if you’ve been consistent with your nutrition and movement but your midsection isn’t moving in the right direction, take a look at your sleep. Poor rest can throw off hormones that regulate hunger, metabolism, and fat storage. Sometimes, the missing piece of the puzzle isn’t what you’re eating or how you’re moving—it’s how well you’re resting.