As I alluded to earlier, the two times that I climbed the Manitou incline that summer, I had two entirely different experiences. The first time I felt on top of the world, because I was, and my energy level was steady and consistent. This was in large part due to my sleep patterns. The second time my sleep was all over the place and my performance suffered.

Even if you don’ have fibromyalgia you will begin to notice that your energy levels are lacking and may be a little moodier after a night or two of lackadaisical sleep. Those of you who have fibromyalgia though, it is very important to protect your sleep. You see when we get deep sleep. That restorative sleep, our dopamine levels in the brain are replenished. When we don’t get this restorative sleep, our dopamine levels become depleted, resulting in the feeling of more pain. Dopamine is the neurotransmitter for pleasure or feeling good. All of you who have fibro know when you don’t get great sleep because the day after, your body just feels like it’s on fire!

So, how do you get restorative, deep sleep? The first easy thing you can do is look at your sleep hygiene. Are you on electronic devices an hour or less before bed? Do you perform any type of meditation or relaxation techniques before going to sleep? Have you checked with your doctor about doing a sleep study? Is your bedtime and waking up time constant? These are just a few ideas of what you can do to start helping yourself feel better.

Whether you’re looking to actually climb a physical mountain or your mountainous fibromyalgia. Make sure you safeguard your sleep, for this one action can make a world of difference. Stay tuned for more ways you can help yourself feel better.

As always if you’re struggling with your fibromyalgia and are looking for some guidance. Contact me and let’s do a sample session together to help get your body on the right track to better health.

#sleepmatters#takecareofyourself#getthesleepyoudeserve#conquerthatmountainwithqualitysleep