Dani Rotramel 
Sweet Sleep is Priceless
Sweet sleep is ever so priceless. Both my Team Fabulous, who is in the midst of our Four Weeks to a Lifetime Course, and CrossFit Ammo, just beginning a 30 Day challenge; bring Sleep (getting at least 7 hours per night) to the scorecard of importance each day.
Cutting-edge sleep researchers are learning that our round-the-clock schedules may impact our health in surprising ways. While scientists don’t yet know why studies continue to show that those who don’t get enough deep restful sleep tend to gain weight.
Whether or not losing sleep makes you feel hungrier and eat more food (some do, some don’t) something about losing sleep changes the metabolism. Faced with a sleep deficit, we metabolize more lean muscle and less fat. Even if we burn calories during exercise, we struggle to lose weight.
Our Brains are Hard at Work During Sleep
With many new studies continuing to find evidence that our brains are hard at work during the night, most scientists agree that getting a decent night’s rest is a good idea.
How Much Sleep Do I Need?
While there is variability between each of us in how much sleep we need, the National Sleep Foundation has noted that the need for sleep changes as we age. The National Sleep Foundation has recommended the following sleep guidelines for selected age groups (*including naps):
| INFANTS | |
| (0–2 months) | 10.5–18 hours* |
| (2–12 months) | 14–15 hours* |
| TODDLERS/CHILDREN | |
| (12–18 months) | 13–15 hours* |
| (18 months–3 years) | 12–14 hours* |
| (3–5 years) | 11–13 hours* |
| (5–12 years) | 9–11 hours |
| ADOLESCENTS | |
| 8.5–9.5 hours | |
| ADULTS | |
| 7–9 hours | |
(Taken from the National Sleep Foundation Web site.)
Sleep Scriptures
The Word of God is very powerful. Here are some beautiful sleep scriptures to meditate on at night instead of meditating on the word of bad news on the TV.
Psalm 4:8
I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety.
Psalm 127:2
It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep.
Proverbs 3:24
When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet.
Psalm 143:8
If you wake me each morning with the sound of your loving voice, I’ll go to sleep each night trusting in you. Point out the road I must travel; I’m all ears, all eyes before you. Message
Proverbs 3:24
You’ll take afternoon naps without a worry, you’ll enjoy a good night’s sleep. Message
Psalm 63:6
If I’m sleepless at midnight, I spend the hours in grateful reflection. Message
