A Holistic Sleep Reset To Set You Up For More Energy This Spring

While skipping over one hour of sleep may seem like no big deal, research finds it could be pretty damaging—especially if you’re someone who doesn’t get enough shut-eye to begin with. Small disruptions in sleep can add up to mess with our mood, attention span, and mental sharpness1. And this fogginess can stick around for a while. In fact, one study out of the University of Colorado found that there are more fatal motor vehicle accidents during the first six days after the clocks spring ahead.

In addition to making us lose sleep, spring forward means the sun will rise later in the morning. Sunshine helps fire up our internal clocks and regulate our circadian rhythms, so waking up in darkness can throw us off.

The good news is, science shows we can reset our body’s internal clock in as little as a couple of days. The secret to getting back on track? Practicing good sleep hygiene for the days following spring forward and investing in a mattress that supports a good night’s rest, like Avocado Green Mattress. Their nontoxic mattress offers pressure-point support for all types of sleepers thanks to its 100 percent natural, VOC-free latex foam. At the same time, its sustainably sourced wool layer helps to regulate your sleep temperature through the night (which is actually a huge determinant of overall sleep quality). Plus, since the entire mattress is made from sustainable, natural ingredients like organic cotton and wool, you can rest easy knowing that you’re not inhaling harsh chemicals that can off-gas from synthetic mattresses. Research shows that such contamination can cause headaches and fatigue and increase the risk of respiratory diseases like asthma.

In the morning:

While sleeping in a little later this week may sound appealing, resist the temptation. Wake up at your normal time to help the body’s internal clock regulate. Upon waking, drink water with lemon or apple cider vinegar to quickly hydrate and kick-start your digestion2. Then, if you can, wait until the sun rises and take a walk outside. Getting moving first thing in the morning is a super-healthy practice, and doing so outside is one of the quickest ways3 to help your body thrive considering time in the sun can do everything from increase our vitamin D production to improve immune function and boost mood.

In the afternoon:

Come mid- to late-afternoon this week, you’ll want to avoid pumping your system with anything that will keep you up at night, since your body will naturally want to fall asleep later anyway. Time to make energizing (but caffeine-free) tonics your new best friend. Gather the supplies for a turmeric powder and ginger tonic or adaptogenic potion at your desk, and make a ritual of practicing this small act of self-care that will set you up for a more restorative sleep.

In the evening: