Sleeping, as you might know, is a cure-all for a person’s mental balance, for our health, as well as for the proper functioning of the immune system. At a time like this, characterized by anxiety over the spreading of Coronavirus, many of us are losing sleep and/or not sleeping well, in a situation that seems to endlessly spiral out of control and that can lead to disastrous consequences for our wellbeing.
Coronavirus and sleeping: why do we sleep less (and worse)?
Here are a few reasons that explain why we sleep less during the Covid-19 emergency:
- Lack of physical activity
getting less movement means having less opportunities to “release” stress, which “builds up” and prevents the body from relaxing - Cohabiting issues
staying confined in the same space with someone we hold dear may seem enjoyable but can also increase sentiments of friction and negativity, inducing the mind to “brood” over things as soon as there’s silence in the room, for example, when we’re about to go to sleep - A diet high on calories
a bit because of stress, a bit as a way to pass time, a bit to gratify ourselves, this is a time when everyone is led to eat more than necessary (and often opting for less wholesome foods). This leads to gaining weight and to a slow digestion, which prevent us from enjoying a relaxing sleep - Our children’s schedule
with the schools closed, children tend to wake up late and go to bed late, preventing parents from living a normal life as a couple; the stress that this generates affects the quality of our sleep - Solitude
having mentioned how forced cohabitation is a possible factor of sleep deprivation, our rest can also be obstructed by an excess of solitude. Spending little to no time with our friends, relatives, and those who genuinely love us, definitely does not help us feel serene and relaxed - Anxiety
so-called “reactive anxiety” is that state of pessimistic excitement, the triggering of a state of alarm, muscular tension, that fast-paced heartbeat that prevents us from sleeping well and that in a vicious cycle, feeds on none other than the poor quality of our sleep…
Coronavirus and sleeping: 4 tips to help you sleep better
- Give structure to your schedule
Having a routine brings a sense of peace. Carefully scheduling specific moments throughout the day and breaking it up into phases proves quite helpful to “control” anxiety and regulate family life - Reserve some time just for yourself, every day
Staying in sweatpants and slippers all day long is not a problem and can, in fact, be pleasant and relaxing. However, it is necessary to always find some time for yourself every day of the week: read a book, practice Yoga exercises, cuddle up with your partner… These activities help relieve and alleviate stress - Engage in physical exercise
If the Government has temporarily banned people from going out, we can exercise at home, perhaps following a specific work-out plan prepared by expert physical trainers and posted free of charge on YouTube - Hearing the voice of others
Indeed, because text messages and chat window conversations help us feel less disoriented, but the good, old-fashioned telephone call is definitely more “empathic” and soothing. It can help give us a sense of tranquility and familiarity, contributing to meeting that need for relationships that is ingrained in every human being - Eating healthy
Fresh and natural foods, fibers and probiotics stimulate our digestion and bowel system and put us in a good mood. Following a structured diet can be a cure-all, but to avoid any unpleasant risks, it is always best to consult your doctor for precise guidelines.
Naturally, if the pillow and mattress we sleep on are not fit for the occasion…
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