Welcome to the Lifting with Bipolar podcast, where we explore the intersection between mental health and fitness.
I'm your host, Jonathan Szarko, a certified personal trainer who believes in the healing power of exercise for those who struggle with bipolar disorder.
Today, we have a special guest with us - Brett Scranton, a longevity coach who will talk to us about the importance of sleep for overall health and wellness. We all know that sleep is crucial for our mental and physical well-being, but do we really know why? Brett is here to shed light on this vital topic and share some tips on how we can improve our sleep hygiene.
Brett started by explaining the critical role of sleep in repairing and restoring our body at a cellular level. It's during this downtime that our body produces hormones, maintains cardiovascular health, optimizes metabolism, and builds our immune system. It's no surprise that poor sleep can disrupt these vital functions, leading to a host of health issues.
To ensure that our sleep cycle is in sync with our body's internal clock, Brett highlighted the importance of maintaining our circadian rhythm. He provided six simple rules for circadian rhythm care, which included getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep, eating within a 12-hour window, getting 30 minutes of daylight exposure, and avoiding food and bright screens 2-3 hours before bed.
For those who struggle with sleep, Brett recommended developing a bedtime routine that includes a relaxing activity like meditation or a warm bath. He also advised against excessive caffeine intake and alcohol consumption close to bedtime.
One interesting fact that Brett shared was how sleep can directly impact our body weight, composition, and gym performance. Poor sleep can lead to overconsumption of calories and decreased motivation to exercise. If you're looking for motivation to hit the gym, getting enough sleep might be just the thing you need.
In conclusion, sleep is not a luxury but a necessity for optimal health. By following these simple tips from Brett, we can improve our sleep hygiene and reap the benefits of a well-rested mind and body. As someone who has struggled with bipolar disorder, I can attest to the transformative power of a good night's sleep. So let's prioritize our sleep and lift our way to a better life.
Show Notes:
Guest: Brett Scranton @informedlongevity (Instagram)
Connect with Jonathan Szarko:
@JonathanSzarko (Instagram)
Music: DJ Stryer @stryermusic (Instagram)
