Exercising to Improve Your Sleep

By: Mark Altman

Studies suggest that exercise helps to promote sleep for
individuals with insomnia. Below are some of the benefits
exercise provides:

- Adrenaline is released, increasing the heart rate and
metabolism, naturally fatiguing the body.

- Brain activity is increased due to increasing levels of oxygen
being transported.

- Endocrine system is activated, normalizing stress hormone
function.

- Endorphins are distributed throughout the nervous system,
interacting with opiate receptor neurons and creating a sense of
euphoria.

- Anxiety levels are significantly reduced.

- Muscle tissue is broken down requiring rest to repair.

- Elevation of body temperature may beckon sleep to regulate.

Some points to keep in mind when exercising:

- Outdoor exercise may be especially beneficial, since Increased
light exposure aids sleep and acts as an anti-depressant.

- Some research warns to not exercise too close to bedtime. The
increased metabolic rate may cause restlessness.

- Morning may be the ideal time to exercise, as it influences
circadian rhythms that may positively affect sleep quality.

The benefits of exercise go far beyond those described in
this article. In general, a regular aerobic exercise schedule
should help to improve your sleep patterns, reduce stress
levels, and increase vitality and energy.

About the author:
Mark Altman is the webmaster of www.soundsleeping.com, a
web page containing free relaxing music,
sleep-aids, relaxation advice, stress reducing
tips and an active discussion.