Power law #1

When it comes to health, the MOST IMPORTANT undertaking is sleep. No other activity (diet, exercise, supplements, etc.) is more important. Without the mental and physical regeneration that sleep provides, every other health activity is hindered.

Why:

There are four (4) stages of sleep, which cycle throughout the night.

Stage one (1), also known as N1, is the initial phase of sleep, is the lightest sleep where the heart rate and body temperature decrease. 

Stage two (2), also known as N2, is a deeper light sleep, but still light sleep. During this stage, the brain waves slow down, with noticeable pauses between short bursts of electrical activity. It is thought that these bursts are the brain organizing memories and information from waking hours

Stage three (3), also known as N3, is deep sleep. This is the stage where the body performs cellular repair and regeneration, which includes bones, muscles, tissues, and the immune system. It is in deep sleep that physical healing, tissue growth, and restoration occur, which also involves growth hormone production and immune-strengthening chemicals.  

Stage four (4), also known as REM (Rapid Eye Movement), is the time of dreams. This stage is important for brain function, consolidating memories, and facilitating brain development. Muscle function is mostly paralyzed to prevent acting out dreams, with the focus on mental rest and processing, not physical regeneration. 

How:

Establish a regular sleep and arise time, and needs to be the same all seven (7) days of the week.

Finish eating at least two (2) hours before bed-time (even more is better).

Avoid television and bright lights sixty (60) minutes before bed.

Release the tensions and worry of the day (it is often helpful to write down issues to deal with. Getting them on paper is helpful in getting them out of your mind).

Health Tip: Make sleep a major priority in your life… period!