Dear HCCUA Members:
Insomnia is a serious symptom taking over most adult’s lives nationwide. It is estimated that sleep-related problems affect 50 to 70 million Americans of all ages and 30% – 50% of the general population are affected by insomnia, while 10% have chronic insomnia. Although most of us know what insomnia is and how we feel and perform after one or more sleepless nights, few seek medical advice.
Insomnia is not defined by a specific number of hours of sleep one gets, since each individual varies widely in their sleep needs and practices. It does affect all ages and is typically more common in people in lower socioeconomic groups, chronic alcoholics, and mental patients. Stress above all and anxiety most commonly trigger short term or acute insomnia. People that do not address insomnia, however, may develop chronic insomnia.
Sleep loss is associated with health problems, including obesity, depression, and certain risk behaviors, including cigarette smoking, physical inactivity, and heavy drinking. Variation for insufficient rest and sleep may be due to busy schedules or work shifts, irregular sleep schedules, or lifestyle factors such as heavy family demands, late night television watching and internet use, or the use of caffeine and alcohol.
Research has shown that taking a midday snooze can help restore some nighttime sleep. To get a good nap, find a quiet place where you feel comfortable and safe, and dim the lights. A 15 – 20 minute nap will make you feel more alert and refreshed. Or snooze for 50 – 90 minutes to experience the most restorative stages of sleep. Keep in mind, longer naps can make you feel groggy the rest of the day so try to avoid caffeine, fat and sweet foods and drinks, which can interfere with sleep.
At HCCUA we are all about providing savings and a stress free and healthy lifestyle for our members! Consider that as an HCCUA member you are entitled to thousands of discounts and deals nationwide, in your area, that give big savings on things you do every day that include: dining, hotel, events and attractions, floral, family recreation, movies, oil changes, travel, car rental, condominium vacations, worldwide shopping, golf, dry cleaning, and vacation discounts.
In the HCCUA e-newsletter you will also find an article on Techniques to De-stress to support minimizing your stress levels as much as possible on a daily basis. Plus we found this healthy, quick and easy recipe found on Delish.com called Red Wine Steak with Quinoa and Asparagus. Thank us later!
Sincerely,
Kristine Eckardt, Director of Member Communications
HCCUA