I Just Want My Hour Back!
Educational Content Disclaimer: This article provides educational information only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The content discusses general health topics and should not replace consultation with your licensed healthcare provider. Always consult with your doctor before making changes to your diet, supplements, or medications. Dr. JJ Gregor is a Doctor of Chiropractic licensed in Texas and practices within the scope of chiropractic care.
We've all been stolen from, and no, I'm not talking about taxes. I tried calling the police because it's something very precious to me. The police couldn't do anything about it.
What was stolen was an hour of sleep. The Government in their infinite wisdom decided to implement daylight savings time.
The week after DST starts is my least favorite week of the year. I know some of you LOVE this time of year. "We get more sunlight in the evening" is somewhat valid. Blah blah blah. I call BS. Have you ever had to explain to a 7 or 8-year-old why they have to go to bed when it's still light out? If you have kids and haven't faced this, teach me your ways. And no, letting them stay up until the sun goes down isn't the answer. Here in Texas, that's 9 PM by June.
Then there's mornings. Holy crap, they suck. I'll be the first to admit I am not a morning person. This is why I've structured my life the way I have. I wake up most days without an alarm, have my coffee, read, cook breakfast, then meander to the gym at 8:35 for the 8:30 class. Then make my way to the office. I enjoy it, especially when I don't have to rush through it like a person with my hair on fire. Now EVERYTHING starts an hour earlier.
This week is another reminder of how vital even one hour of sleep is.
Sleep Is Non-Negotiable
Sleep is one of the most vital things we can do for our health. Americans are chronically sleep-deprived, and that's even without an hour being stolen by the government. Chronic sleep deprivation depletes adrenal function, worsens insulin resistance, drives inflammation, and undermines everything else you're doing to support your health.
So what can we do to make sleep better? We're going to look at this physically, chemically, and emotionally.
Nutritionally
The basics: don't eat your food sensitivities (wheat, corn, dairy, soy, and sugar) with dinner. Try to eat a bit more fat and protein later in the evening to maintain blood sugar throughout the night. Blood sugar crashes at 2 or 3 AM are one of the most common causes of waking up that nobody ever identifies.
For supplemental support: melatonin combined with B6 and tryptophan works well. Occasionally CBD oil may help with sleep for short periods.
Emotionally
Meditation is my primary go-to for emotional balancing before bed. All I can say is do it. Your life will never be the same.
Physically
Get adjusted. The acupuncture meridians can cause imbalances in the musculoskeletal system that affect sleep quality in ways most practitioners never consider.
Beyond that: get a workout in during the day so you're sufficiently tired at night. About 20 minutes of stretching before bed helps me wind down consistently.
Setting the Stage
The environment you sleep in deserves its own section. The research is clear: sleeping in a cool, completely dark room improves sleep quality dramatically.
Your room should be around 68 degrees with blackout curtains and ALL electronics and LED lights covered. If you can't get it completely dark, use a sleep mask. No screen time for at least an hour before bed. Blue light blocking glasses after dark if you need to use screens in the evening.
There's also solid evidence that nasal breathing during sleep is superior to mouth breathing. Taping your lips shut with a small piece of surgical tape forces nasal breathing and improves sleep quality for many people. Sounds strange until you try it.
The Quick Recap
- Don't eat inflammatory foods at dinner
- Eat fat and protein within an hour of bed
- Consider melatonin, B6, tryptophan, or CBD for support
- Meditate before bed
- Stretch before bed
- No screens 1 hour before bed
- Blue light blocking glasses after dark if needed
- Sleep in a completely dark room
- Sleep in a cool room (around 68 degrees)
- Try mouth taping for nasal breathing
- Get adjusted
For comprehensive lifestyle and sleep strategies, visit the Live Right: Lifestyle Primer.
If you're in Frisco, Texas and sleep problems are affecting your health, Applied Kinesiology can identify the structural and nutritional factors keeping you from getting quality rest.
Call or text: (972) 989-4683
Email: [email protected]
Stay connected with news and updates!
Join our mailing list to receive the latest news and updates from our team.
Don't worry, your information will not be shared.
Stay connected with news and updates!
Recent Posts
Recent Posts
