Are you tired, lethargic, feeling like you can’t possibly get together enough energy to make it through the day? Do you rely on caffeine or other stimulants to help you cope? Do you know that you are over-scheduling your or your child’s life, but feel you have to because everyone else does? Do you often feel that you would like to just pull your covers over your head and scream "NO" to the whole world? Then chances are, you are OVERSTRESSED! It was reported recently, in Forbes magazine, that 76% of Americans are regularly sleeping less than seven hours a night, and much of that sleep would not be considered quality sleep.

Chronic stress and sleeplessness can lead to memory loss, loss of stamina, a lessened ability to learn and perform tasks, a compromised immune system, mood swings and irritability, an overtaxing of our internal organs and is likely a significant trigger for depression.

To help yourself or others in your family, decide on healthy priorities for your family, limit your extra activities to one per person—and make it something you really enjoy! Fill your home with healthy, unprocessed foods that bring good nutrition to your family. Exercise. Limit your caffeine intake, especially after noon. Make the bedrooms in your home a peaceful, uncluttered sanctuary for those sleeping there. Rid your home of unnecessary electrical appliances. Whenever possible, open your windows and allow your home to fill with fresh air. A calm, peaceful body (and mind and spirit) is a healthier, happier body.

Susan Sawyer is a Board Certified Master Clinical Hypnotist, with a private practice specializing in helping people overcome stress and chronic insomnia. Susan will be speaking at the Healthy Living Expo on Saturday, March 4th 2006 at the Florida Tech Clemente Center. Call Susan at 321-432-7267 for more information.