Anyone dealing with anxiety, depression, severe insomnia, immune disorders, chronic fatigue, or any other so-called “invisible” illness should read this informative article from kveller. The author did an excellent job describing how challenging life can be when you’re truly sick but others can’t understand why, don’t believe you, or act critical. I can relate to so much of what she recounts and it’s comforting to know that others are fighting the same battle.

Voting is one of our most important civil rights. If you choose not to exercise your privilege, that would be sad indeed! I know this election has been beyond contentious. Many folks hate the candidates and see no point in participating. Even if the National race seems like a mess, there are many State and Local candidates that are worth your time and attention. No matter who you support, please get out today and make your voice heard! Every vote matters.

If civic duty isn’t enough to persuade you, there are 30 Election Day freebies available for those who vote.

Whenever I feel stressed out—which is pretty often—there are two areas I try to focus on: sleep and refresh. When we’re tired, we obviously don’t feel well. When we’re bored or blue, it can be a similar sensation. Daily life can be so hectic, most of us aren’t making fun time a priority (big mistake!). Here are 15 easy ways to refresh, both body and soul:

1. Unplug – At least 1 day per week, I try to take a break from the phone, computer, and social media.
2. Move – Any type of exercise from a simple 10 minute walk to an hour long gym session is beneficial.
3. Leave the house – SO important if you’re cooped up all day, everyday with kids or working from home…or both!
4. Pamper – Color my hair, bubble bath, spa day, manicure, etc.
5. Outing with friends – Kids and husbands are great, but sometimes I just need girl time.
6. Journal – Worries, wishes, gratitude, anything that’s on your mind.
7. Garden – When it’s warm, I do this outside. During cold weather I love using a terrarium or indoor herb kit.
8. Art – Painting, drawing, stamping. I love getting creative!
9. Movies/TV – Anything mindless like reality fare or a fun comedy.
10. Vacation – Yes, a week-long adventure is wonderful, but a local day trip can be just as nice.
11. Read – Some quiet time with a good book is like heaven.
12. Cook – Experimenting in the kitchen with a new recipe is high on my list.
13. Coupon – This stresses a lot of people out, but for me, it’s very relaxing.
14. Date Night – I firmly believe every couple needs some time together to share, laugh and love.
15. Pray – No matter how low I am, there is someone above that I can always look to for help, guidance, and strength.

What’s your favorite way to recharge?

Getting enough sleep…probably the number one thing I struggle with in my life! Between severe insomnia, work stress, family stress, and chronic pain, it seems like I’m never rested. (Probably every lady reading this is nodding in agreement!)

For a long time, I treated sleep as a want instead of a need. There was always something that seemed more important: cooking, cleaning, watching movies, reading, blogging, etc. Of course, by skimping I only ended up feeling worse. I need sleep to function and if I don’t, everything will end up out of balance. Here are 20 specific things that have made a world of difference in my quest for rest:

1. Make it a priority – Until this truly matters, you will always find an excuse to stay up.
2. Sunshine – Many of us are Vitamin D & light deficient. 15 mins daily is the minimum needed.
3. Moderate caffeine – I try not to have any coffee after 1:00pm.
4. Have a nightly routine – It takes time to wind down, after all.
5. Set a bed time – Same as the kids, pick a specific time and stick with it.
6. Power off electronics – Do this at least an hour beforehand.
7. Don’t fight the urge – Ever feel sleepy but stay up so long a second wind takes over? Yeah, me too. It’s never good.
8. Water therapy – Try a bubble bath or shower before bed. Water can be very soothing.
9. Sleeptime tea – I love a cup mixed with lemon and honey.
10. Essential oils – Rubbing a drop of lavender oil on temples or feet can help. If the oil bothers you, try a pillow spray instead.
11. Journal – Many nights I have tossed and turned as my mind races. Write it down, then let it go.
12. Adjust the room – Is it cool? Is it dark? Is it quiet?
13. Earplugs – Family members, street traffic, and barking dogs are all noisy!
14. Eye shades – Even miniscule amounts of light from clocks, TV’s, and outside can severely impact sleep.
15. Regular exercise – If you’re sedentary most of the day, you may never feel tired. A moderate amount of movement, preferably early on, is best.
16. White noise – Some folks feel nervous in total silence. Try using a sleep app, leaving on a fan, or playing soft music.
17. Limit liquids – Too much and you’ll be in the bathroom multiple times during the night.
18. Secure the house – Close the windows, lock the doors, check the kids. Needless worrying be gone!
19. Prepare for morning – Set out clothes, set the breakfast table, wash hair—anything to streamline for the following day.
20. Hugs & kisses – Make a point to give every member of the family some love before bed. This is a quick and easy way to connect that has lasting impact.

How much sleep do you average nightly? Is it ever enough?