Happiness tip #10: rest

December 5, 8:04 AMSalt Lake City Parenting ExaminerRachael Lever

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Get your rest when you can 

You have to admit, when you are tired you are not as happy as you could be. I know when I'm tired I get less done, I yell at the kids more, and I'm just all around cranky.

Happiness tip #10 could be the most important one of all. Getting the rest that you need is getting the fuel and energy your body and mind need to keep up with all those kids running around your house.

Sleep is a renewal for our body and our mind. It helps to detox your mind and body. While it may feel like you are wasting time when you have a bazillion things to do, it is actually an investment in making your time more productive. You are more alert and energetic when you are well rested, and so you will get more done in a shorter amount of time.

But, if your home is anything like mine is at night, you may be wondering how in the world of tiny tots that is possible. It is, but you may have to change a few things, for you and your kids.

• Establish a bed time routine, for you and your children. Start to wind down in the evening and do things that help everyone be calm and peaceful.
• Don't have snacks before bed. This is more for the adults. It can mess around with your blood sugar levels, keeping you up longer, and possible causing night awakenings.
• Don't watch TV or read exciting books before you go to sleep. They get your brain going and sometimes it's hard to stop.
• When you do have to wake up, try to keep things as dim as possible.

Sometimes, it's impossible to get that good night's sleep, especially when you have a newborn, or sick kids. These are the days when you should take things easy. Realize that you are tired, and try to remember that when you are asking your four year-old for the seven hundredth time to please chew with her mouth closed because she is driving you crazy.

Get rest when you can during the day. If your kids still nap, take a short power nap, meditate, or just sit down and read for a few minutes. If they don't nap, send them outside for a few minutes so you can do ten minutes of yoga or listen to relaxing music and knit.

Getting the rest you need will take your life to a new level of satisfaction. You will have the energy that you need to get your exercise. You are more likely to eat healthy foods instead of going for the quick Twinkie fix. You feel invigorated and have the power to keep your stress to a minimum. You will be more able to be the parent you want to be.