A Surprising Habit That May Be Disrupting Your Sleep Quality
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Chapter 1: The Wake-Up Call
Reflecting on a frustrating experience on the New York State Thruway, I found myself overwhelmed by a mix of energy and irritation while stuck in traffic. If only I had a smartphone to check the congestion! In a moment of frustration, I struck the ceiling of my Mitsubishi, feeling helpless.
After finally making it to my dad's driveway, I took a moment to contemplate my day. "Working out at 7:30 PM along with pre-workout supplements isn't the best idea," I told myself. My love for caffeine often leads me to lift weights energized by pre-workout drinks, but my routine was now being tested.
My first job that required a college education was at Enterprise Rent-A-Car, an experience akin to a modern-day boot camp. The hours were long, the pay questionable, yet it provided invaluable insights into business operations. A crucial takeaway was the significance of morning workouts over evening sessions.
Section 1.1: Morning Workouts and Sleep
Research from Appalachian State University highlights the correlation between workout timing and sleep quality. Their study monitored individuals exercising at three different times: 7:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 7:00 PM. The results were illuminating; those who worked out at 7:00 AM enjoyed longer and deeper sleep cycles, spending as much as 75% more time in the crucial deep sleep phase.
Section 1.2: Understanding Body Temperature
Post-exercise, it takes approximately 4–6 hours for your body temperature to return to baseline levels. This is essential since we often find solace in wrapping ourselves in blankets and sipping warm beverages during the evening, a natural response as our body cools down.
Exercise terminology is rich with heat-related phrases: burn, torch, toast. After a workout, your core temperature elevates, making it harder to drift off to sleep. This difficulty in thermoregulation—regulating your body's internal temperature—is critical. While you may feel the “burn,” your body is working hard, and that heightened core temperature can linger for several hours, opposing your body's natural evening cooling process.
Chapter 2: The Sleep Connection
The first video titled "10 Sleep MISTAKES Ruining Your Life" delves into common pitfalls that sabotage quality sleep. Discover how seemingly innocuous habits can significantly impact your rest and overall well-being.
The second video, "The #1 Thing Killing Your Sleep," explores the primary factors that impede restful nights. Learn how to optimize your sleep environment and routine for better sleep hygiene.