Published to Newsletter on Oct 26, 2023
Reed Vawter, MS, RDN, CSOWM, LD
Health Ed. Consultant
Daylight Saving Time is quickly coming to an end, making now a good time to think about sleep. Normally, talk of improved sleep focuses on what we do at bedtime. But would you believe that what you do at work can also help? Here are four things you can do during the workday to get a better night’s sleep.
Step Outside on Your Break
Don’t lock yourself in a dark office. Sunlight helps regulate our sleep/wake cycles – so be sure to spend some time outside during the day. Your 15-minute breaks are a great time to get out of the office. Take a regular stroll on a Lobo Trail and you’ll likely see sleep improvements.
Limit Caffeine to the Morning
Caffeine is a stimulant that can help you wake up and focus. But it also impairs sleep if consumed too late in the day. Do yourself a favor – stick to decaf after noon. Or if you really need a pick-me-up, try lower caffeine options like green tea.
Use Your Health Plan
You can find helpful wellness tools on both the UNM LoboHealth and Presbyterian member websites. And both include self-directed sleep improvement courses and trackers. Sign into your plan and take control of your sleep.
Take a Nap
Normally, we wouldn’t recommend napping at work – but did you know that HSLIC has nap pods available? If you didn’t get the sleep you needed last night, head over on your lunch break for some quick Zzz’s and feel refreshed in the afternoon.
The key point is that you don’t have to wait until bedtime to think about sleep. Everything you do during the day can impact your sleep quality. Be thoughtful about how you structure your day and how work fits into your schedule and you’ll find better rest in no time.
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