We’ve previously discussed the link between blood sugar and sleep, and sleep and exercise. Today we’ll talk about the link between our best sleep and our overall energy levels.
A common misconception is that if you have stored energy left when you’re ready to sleep, your body will simply use it the following day. The problem with this theory is that as a result of your excess energy, your body won’t be able to shut down as well. Your sleep that night will be stilted and by the next day you will actually have less energy, not more.
Soon you will find yourself in the horrible cycle of permanent exhaustion: forever too tired to exercise, yet unable to sleep due to a lack of physical activity.
Gaining energy is like running on a treadmill. If you stand still, you’re moving backwards. To gain velocity, or even to simply maintain, you must exert the effort required.
Figuring out exactly how much effort is needed, is one of the keys to getting deep, rejuvenating sleep.
What is the best time of day to exercise?
Different people have different preferences, yet when it comes to optimal sleep, the best time is between three to five hours before bedtime. I prefer to exercise immediately prior to dinner. This is an excellent schedule for achieving the best rest because it puts your body through a certain cycle where it is winding down just as you’re drifting off.
When you first start exercising, your blood flow is up and your body begins the production of endorphins, that particular hormone that makes you feel good. Once you’ve exercised, your body will gain a few hours of sustained energy, which is why you don’t want to exercise right before bed. After a couple of hours, your body will start to relax, bringing your mind along with it. Now you are ready for sleep.
Of course it’s acceptable to exercise earlier, but this energy cycle might kick in all over again if you engage in your exercise routine too early. You might easily find yourself in a second wind, which will render it difficult to fall to sleep.
Everyone is different. It’s far more important that you DO exercise, than follow a particular schedule. Exercise when it suits you best, your body and mind will thank you, and your sleep will be better than you imagined.
If I can find my best sleep, so can you!
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