Peak Insight Newsletter
Oct 12, 2023 2:46 pm
Hello ,
Introducing Our New Team Member
Paula Garzon,
Office Manager / Medical Assistant
Please welcome Paula Garzon, our newest team member. Paula Garzon is Peak Performance & Longevity’s office manager and medical assistant. Paula is a competitive swimmer and swimming instructor and is passionate about helping you reach your wellness goals. She can be reached at contact@peakperformanceandlongevity.com
Performance & Longevity Insights
Sleep is not merely a luxury but a fundamental necessity for our physical and mental well-being. When we sleep, our bodies and brains engage in a complex process of repair, restoration, and consolidation of memories. This nightly rejuvenation is vital for maintaining a healthy immune system, regulating our emotions, and enhancing cognitive functions like problem-solving and creativity. Consistent, quality sleep plays a pivotal role in our overall health, helping to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Sleep is not an indulgence but a cornerstone of our well-being.
Factors that can affect a good night's sleep
Stress and anxiety
- High levels of stress and anxiety can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Poor sleep environment
- Excessive noise, uncomfortable temperature, and bright lights can disrupt sleep.
Irregular sleep schedule
- Inconsistent sleep patterns, such as irregular bedtimes and wake-up times, can interfere with the body's natural sleep-wake cycle.
Caffeine and stimulants
- Consuming caffeine, nicotine, or other stimulants close to bedtime can make it harder to fall asleep (this includes "pre-workout" supplements)
Electronic devices
- The blue light emitted by electronic devices like smartphones and tablets can suppress the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep.
Medications
- Certain medications, such as those for allergies, asthma, and high blood pressure, can interfere with sleep.
Medical conditions
- Conditions like sleep apnea, insomnia, and restless leg syndrome can disrupt sleep.
Alcohol
- Alcohol disrupts the sleep cycle and lowers serotonin levels in the brain, prohibiting deep, restful sleep.
Lack of physical activity
- Not getting enough exercise during the day can make it harder to fall asleep at night.
Tips for better sleep
Establish a Consistent Schedule
- Go to bed and wake up at the same times every day, even on weekends, to regulate your body's internal clock.
Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment
- Ensure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
Limit Screen Time Before Bed
- Avoid screens (phones, tablets, TVs) at least an hour before bedtime due to the blue light disrupting melatonin production.
Watch Your Diet
- Avoid heavy meals, caffeine (including pre-workout drinks), and alcohol close to bedtime, as they can interfere with sleep.
Establish a Relaxing Bedtime Routine
- Engage in calming activities like reading, taking a warm bath, or practicing relaxation techniques before sleep.
Exercise Regularly
- Regular physical activity can promote better sleep, but try to finish exercising a few hours before bedtime.
Manage Stress
- Practice stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing to calm your mind before sleep.
Expose Yourself to Natural Light
- Get plenty of natural sunlight during the day to regulate your circadian rhythm.
Be Mindful of Your Bedroom Clock
- If you find yourself unable to fall asleep, avoid watching the clock, as this can increase anxiety.
Try Supplemental Remedies
- Supplements and medications such as Melatonin, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), Gaba, Magnesium, and Growth Hormone peptides can help with achieving deeper, more restful sleep.
Remember that improving sleep habits may take time, so be patient and consistent with these tips to enjoy the benefits of a good night's sleep.
Resistance training, also known as strength training or weightlifting, plays a crucial role in enhancing both performance and longevity. Engaging in regular resistance training exercises offers numerous benefits for individuals of all ages.
Benefits of resistance training
- Helps improve muscular strength and endurance, leading to enhanced athletic performance and functional abilities in daily life. By increasing muscle mass and bone density, resistance training also helps to prevent age-related muscle loss and osteoporosis, promoting longevity and overall physical well-being.
- Contributes to better body composition by reducing body fat and increasing lean muscle mass, which can positively impact metabolic health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular conditions.
- Improves cognitive function and mental health, reducing the risk of cognitive decline and enhancing overall quality of life.
Incorporating resistance training into one's fitness routine is essential for optimizing performance, maintaining physical independence, and promoting long-term health and longevity.
SPECIAL PROMOTIONS
Speaking of resistance training, we have partnered with the new Iron Legends Gym located at 32000 State Highway 249 in Pinehurst, Texas!
All Peak Performance & Longevity active clients receive $0 initiation fee. Just mention you're a client when signing up. This Saturday, October 14, Iron Legends Gym will have a grand opening and open (FREE) lift from 8am- 4pm. See you there!