Most of us overlook our need for sleep on a daily basis.  I believe that America is one of the most sleep deprived countries in the world.

I remember when I was in high school that I was told, “In the future technology will make our lives simpler.”  How’s that working out for you?  It’s not working out too great for me.  I have a phone at my office and home that I have to answer.  I also have a cell phone where I have to listen to and respond to voicemails, text messages, and e-mail.  I have personal e-mail to respond to.  I have work e-mail to respond to.  I have a Twitter account and a FaceBook account that require my attention.  I have reports I must write.  I have exams I must do.  The list goes on and on and on.  And I still haven’t touched upon dinner, home life, friends, family, or travel. 

Let’s face it…we’re overworked and overwhelmed.  Technology has created more work for us…not less.  But there is a piece of technology that can help us with our sleep…it’s called, PZIZZ (pronounced Puh Ziz).  For years I have struggled with getting deep, relaxing sleep.  I’m usually up too late working or finding myself traveling and staying in some new hotel.  When this happens my sleep pattern is in complete disarray.  About a year ago I had two friends (within about a week of one another) tell me about PZIZZ.  When two people tell you the same thing in such a short time frame you should listen.  :-)  

PZIZZ is technology that definitely makes my life simpler.  I listen to it on my iPod and within 10 minutes I in the deepest sleep cycle.  I believe that this is an audio/software program that we can all benefit from.  If you don’t have an interest in using an audio product to help you achieve sleep let me offer you these suggestions.

1.  We need a minimum of 8 hours of sleep a night.  If you are getting 6 or less hours of sleep a night you are technically, “sleep deprived”.  No, you can’t really “catch up” on your sleep over the weekend. 

2.  Going to bed by 10P.M. is more beneficial for your body than going to bed later and trying to sleep in later.

3.  Make your room as dark as possible.  If need be invest in an eye-mask.  You would be amazed at how even the most minute bit of light in a bedroom can affect your sleep.

4.  Use earplugs to drown out any ambient sound that may interfere with your sleep.

5.  Open a window and get some fresh air into your room.  If it’s the winter just throw on an extra blanket.  Don’t be afraid of a little draft of fresh air.

6.  Get a good pillow.  When is the last time you bought a new pillow.  A lot of stores will let you purchase a product and return in within 14 days.  Buy a couple of different pillows and try them out until you find the one that is best for you.

7.  Maybe it’s time for a new mattress.  You would be amazed at how greatly your sleep will improve when you have a comfortable mattress.  Again, find a mattress that is right for you.  In my area most mattress dealers will let you try out a new bed for 45 days risk free.  You’re going to know if a mattress is right for you within 7 days.  Don’t be afraid to return something that doesn’t work for you. 

In my opinion a great nights sleep is right up there in importance with air, water, and food.

Yours In Health!

Dr. Wendy