ZZZZZZ !!!
By Montana Grant

Posted: June 23, 2019

Sleeping at hunting or fishing camp can be tough. Anytime we venture to a new destination and change our sleep routine, we lose control over our rest.

It is recommended that we get 7 plus hours of sleep each night if we want to support good health and be ready to target a productive day or outdoor fun. As we age, sleep becomes more elusive. Health issues, prostates, heart problems, obesity, diabetes, and other issues challenge us all. Throw in the snoring issues and sleep becomes a wake-up call.

Several things impact our sleep patterns. Years ago, after a stressful day as a middle School teacher, I had trouble sleeping. Fortunately, I had a cassette tape of the Madison River. My summer camp was at Raynold’s Pass and my sleep was always great. The comforting sounds of the river helped me relax and rest. For some, the sound of the water may cause you to hit the bathroom but for me it worked better than counting sheep. We all need to find that something that helps us relax.

Maybe one of these factors is causing you to not get a great night of rest.          

               Anxiety    Turning off our minds is hard. Worrying about something that happened or the next day are a challenge. If you wake up with a thought, idea, or something urgent, write it down. Keep a note pad handy. Once recorded, your mind can relax.

               Alcohol    Booze often means you lose. You may sleep or pass out for a while but usually alcohol causes fragmented rest. The quality of your sleep is compromised as well. Cut off the drinking a few hours before you hit the sack.

               Blue Light    The light from cell phones or electronics suppresses melatonin, a sleep-inducing hormone. Stop using these electronics a few hours before bed. Leave you phone in another room so it does not wake you from weather reports or other messages that can wait.

               Pit Stops    Needing to pee is a wake-up problem. Try to limit drinks a few hours before bed. There are also medications that can help manage this issue.

               Snoring    Snorers make incredible sounds. Normally they come when sleepers are on their back. Partially obstructed airways cause a cacophony of sounds. Neighboring campers may want to try ear plugs. C-packs and other head gear can be prescribed by a physician. A proper pillow will also keep the airway open to reduce snoring. A “snoring tent or room” may also be required.

It is also important to enjoy the day completely. Energy spend being busy, exercising, and staying busy will get you exhausted enough to rest.

If you don’t snooze, you lose!

Montana Grant

For more Montana Grant, find him resting at www.montanagrantfishing.com.

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