Why Am I So Tired?

We chalk it up to being a busy mom. Which almost makes sense given everything that we moms do on a daily basis. Our jobs literally never end. But there could be more to the exhaustion than just “mom life.” Let’s check out some causes of why you’re tired so that you can work on fixing them and being the energetic, productive mama that you’re meant to be!

 

 

Causes of Tiredness (no it doesn’t always mean you have a major medical issue)

 

Sometimes we overlook what can cause us to be tired. Some common reasons include:

  • Stress
  • Lack of sleep
  • Grief
  • Certain medications
  • Too much caffeine
  • Sleep disorders
  • Health issues
  • Hormone Imbalances

 

Stress: This is something that we all have and always will in life. Find ways to help with stress like starting a new hobby, talking with family or friends, or start taking relaxing baths each evening. Do whatever it is that makes you happy to help deal with your stress. I love a hot bath with a good book and cuddling with my dogs or cats. I also love a good glass of wine. (All wine is great).

 

Lack of sleep: It may seem obvious but if you really start to think about it, it’s not. If you are overly tired often, check what time you’re going to bed and getting up. Also, keep in mind how many times you’re up late tossing and turning or waking up off and on. Even if you go to bed early, getting woken up throughout your sleep almost makes it worse than just staying up all night. It’s important to get that uninterrupted, deep sleep.

 

Grief: If something traumatic has happened in your life, big or small, it can affect you subconsciously. Obviously, if you lose a spouse, friend, or pet, etcetera you will be grieving. But breakups, failing a test at school, your kid not listening, not getting your dream job, there are so many smaller things that can add up to causing grief. When we experience grief it changes us. It can cause sleep issues, eating issues, and a slew of other issues. Temporary grief is absolutely acceptable (and expected) but if prolonged, you may need to speak to someone.

 

Certain Medications: There are a lot of medications out there that can cause tiredness, even ones that you would never think have major side effects. Be sure to discuss any concerns about your current or new medications with your doctor so that they can adjust the medication accordingly.

 

Too much caffeine: This is one that we moms probably are guilty of doing. Consuming too much caffeine. Try to cut out caffeinated beverages by 3 p.m. You can also try coffees and teas that have natural caffeine so that it won’t have such a negative effect.

 

Sleep Disorders: If you are experiencing constant tiredness even after going to bed at a normal hour, you may have a sleeping disorder. This is another thing that you will want to check in with your doctor to figure out what’s going on.

 

Health Issues: There are many health issues that can contribute to being tired and many are normal such as pregnancy, a common cold, etcetera. But check out the other causes first, because we so often self-diagnose and worry ourselves that something is wrong when it is easily fixable.

 

Hormone Imbalances: Women are very prone to hormone disruptions. Whether it be caused by lifestyle choices, pregnancy, age, or whatever the reason may be. If you find yourself constantly tired or in a fog, out of your norm- talk to your doctor about getting blood work done for cortisol, thyroid, and other important hormonal components.

 

Sleep Deprivation

Being deprived of sleep can have some very negative consequences. When you are sleep deprived you are not only grumpy and moody, (and duh, tired), but your body craves all the bad junk food and can even cause you to gain weight. Lack of sleep can also lead to other mental and physical issues. Hello, adult acne! Sleep deprivation causes you to be dreary and you won’t feel like working out or doing much of anything. You can’t make up lost sleep, so try to win and get an adequate amount of sleep each night.

There are several ways that you can get more sleep. A routine works wonders. Aim to be in bed around the same time each night and turn your cell phone on vibrate and turn off the electronics a couple of hours before snooze time. To help unwind each night, have a relaxing bath. Read a good book or magazine. Once you start a routine it will be easier to get in the groove and stick to it long-term.

 

Sleep Stages

When you understand the stages of sleep, you can better see how important a good night’s rest truly is.

Stages 1 & 2: Light Sleep Your heart rate decreases, muscles relax, and sleep begins.

Stages 3 & 4: Deep Sleep The most restful sleep that you can get. Your muscle growth is promoted and repaired and waste is removed from your brain. Your blood pressure drops, hormones, and tissues are repaired. Deep sleep is key for thriving and it helps to get over sickness quickly.

Stage R: REM Sleep This is essential to re-energizing your mind. Your dreams occur during the REM cycle.

Your body cycles through these stages three to four times each night, making it so vital to get a full night of sleep each night.

 

sleep

 

Natural Energy 

You can attain natural energy in several ways:

  • Working out
  • Taking a walk
  • Spending a few minutes each day outdoors
  • Drinking tea or coffee that contains natural, plant-based caffeine

 

If you’re in the market for a new mattress, I must recommend the Casper Wave Hybrid. It’s a little slice of heaven on earth. Check out my unboxing and review here.

Lastly

Try to get on a routine, avoid sleeping in (even on weekends), and spend some time outdoors to help get the best rest that you can. Once you implement these steps, it will be easier to get more sleep.

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