Bloodshot, puffy eyes and a lackluster complexion are what you have to look forward to when you're short on shut-eye, but, insomnia affects much more than your appearance. When asleep, your body repairs cell and tissue damage, replenishes your immune system and restores energy. Not getting enough can sap your energy, make you less able to handle stress, affect your mental and physical health and even lead to weight gain. But, how to get those zzzzz's?
Set the Scene
Create a soothing and stress-free environment in your bedroom. Always keep it neat and clutter-free and only use it for slumber, intimacy and reading. That means no TV, movies or video games. Also, if you must keep your home office in your bedroom use a room divider or a curtain to section off the area and keep it out of sight so it never feels like it's really part of the room.
Stick to a Routine
A nightly ritual cues your mind and body that it's time to wind down. It can be as simple as a warm bath, simple meditation or listening to soft music before retiring for the evening. Be sure to repeat this routine as often as possible to keep your internal clock running smoothly.
Block it Out
Studies have shown that even small amounts of light can disrupt your sleep because light can curb the release of the "sleep hormone" melatonin. Purchase an eye mask to block out daybreak, street lamps, even illuminated clocks. Noise is another no-no. A "white-noise" machine or fan will come in handy on your quest.
Promote Relaxation
Beauty products infused with lavender and other calming ingredients are specifically formulated to help ease you into slumber. Soak in an herbal-infused tub, massage in an aromatherapy body lotion or spritz a calming pillow mist before bedtime.
Avoid Stimulants
Steer clear of caffeine, alcohol and exercise for several hours before bedtime. All stimulate your nervous system making it difficult to get and stay asleep.
Wake-Up Makeup
Didn't get your beauty sleep? You don't have to look it. On days you look "tired" a little bit of makeup is better than none or too much. Here, how to fake a full night's sleep.
- Hydrate your complexion with a rich moisturizer and eye cream. If you need some coverage use a tinted moisturizer, instead.
- Apply concealer underneath eyes to cover dark circles and at inner corners to brighten up the whole area.
- Add just a bit of a creamy pink blush to the apples of your cheeks.
- Curl lashes to open up the eye area.
- Finish with a coat of black or dark brown mascara.
Nancy Weinberg Simon - Nancy Weinberg Simon is a freelance writer, editor and stylist. From 1997 to 2007 she was the beauty editor at Family Circle magazine. Her ...
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