Put your own oxygen mask on first
That poor sleep or a chronic lack of zzz’s is linked to health issues such as depression, weight gain, high blood pressure and lower immunity should be no surprise to anyone. All the systems in your body — central nervous, immune, digestive, cardiovascular and endocrine — use those slumbering hours to regulate the function and production of a variety of hormones. Studies also show that we need sleep and sunlight in the right amounts at the right time to regulate our moods. And when you lose sleep, you lose focus. “Have you tried to pay attention when you’re sleep deprived?” asks Huffington. “It’s really hard!”
A major factor in sleep disruption is stress. “Stress is a deadly killer, especially for women,” notes Huffington. “Take time to reevaluate your life. Put your own oxygen mask on first. Come up with a plan to gradually eliminate the unnecessary stressors.” Start with the word no. Simply saying “no” when you are feeling overwhelmed can begin to give you back a little control. Find your purpose beyond the obligations of work, family and friends, too.
Do for yourself as you do for others.