Not sure why sleep has been popping up in my devotions and book readings this last week? Maybe because I've been thinking ahead to the upcoming school year and planning my wake-up time. My mornings typically start at 5:00 or 5:30 am but with my son's new schedule, I would really like to get up at 4:00 am to get stuff done before I have to wake the house!
4:00 am seems really early. If I attempt this, it will have to be a gradual change. Maybe start with 15 minute intervals, (wake-up at 4:45 am) and test it out to see how my body responds.
My morning time is precious to me. I never thought I would say that. I never thought my productivity in the morning would make the rest of my day so much better. Ever since I started to write in my journal, read good devotions, and take time to pray and think, my life has changed. Crazy, I know. But it's the only predictable time of day. The house is silent and it's my time and my time only!
If I really try this earlier wake-up, I have to make sure I am still getting enough sleep. I was reminded of this twice in the last two days in my readings. One article talked about the importance of sleep over exercise. If you had to choose between the two, your body needs the sleep more. I agree. Cortisol, the stress hormone is not something to piss off. When your body does not get the rest it needs, this hormone thrives.
Another article I read mentioned most adults need between 7 and 8 hours of sleep. Hum. I let my body "naturally" wake-up the last 2 days. I slept 9 hours each night! I'm hoping that's some recovery sleep from being on vacation sleeping in a full size bed with my husband. We are used to our king size bed at home and neither of us slept well on vacation.
I do know from history, that my body does like to sleep. Sleep is so important! Sleep heals our bodies, fights illness, helps with emotions, reduces cortisol levels and hormones, makes us happier and healthier. As I figure out my new "beginning of school" morning schedule, I have a lot to think about.
So, back to the question, Is sleep more important than exercise? My opinion is absolutely. However, if you NEVER exercise because you are using the excuse sleep is more important, then we have another problem. There needs to be balance. Our bodies were designed to move and rest. You are the only one that knows your body best! Listen to it and decide how much sleep you need and how much exercise you need.
Comment below and let me know what your perfect balance is between sleep and exercise.