Sleep is the single most important thing you can do for your health, and JJ's here to explain why! Listen to find out what counts as a good night's sleep and why you need it, as well as the negative effects that can occur from a lack of sleep like weight gain, cravings, and imbalances in your hormones and blood sugar levels. JJ also shares her top tips to help you get your z's, including how to set your bedroom up for optimal sleep and easy ways to create a calming routine at night. Getting enough quality sleep can be a game-changer – find out from JJ how to make it happen!   Freebies From Today’s Episode Get JJ’s free Sleep Tips Worksheet and other fun resources by going to JJVirgin.com/sleeppodcast.   Main Points From Today’s Episode Some of the latest research shows that if you’re getting 6 hours of sleep per night or less, you’re at an increased risk of heart disease. JJ recommends getting 8-9 hours of quality sleep every night. Getting enough sleep is key to weight loss. A recent study showed that participants were able to lose weight just by changing their sleep habits. Creating a power-down hour at night can help prepare your body for bedtime. That includes turning down the lights and shutting off electronic devices.   Episode Play-By-Play [2:45] The negative effects of not getting enough sleep  [3:48] Sleep and the normal circadian rhythm [4:14] What counts as a good night’s sleep? [5:07] The link between sleep and weight loss [5:33] How a lack of sleep can wreak havoc on your weight and your health [7:10] The first step to getting the sleep you need [9:09] It’s key to eat a hormone-balancing dinner about 3-4 hours before bed. [10:38] Create a power-down hour [11:47] Taking an Epsom salts bath with magnesium and lavender is a great way to relax before bedtime. [12:08] How to set your bedroom up for sleep [14:01] What to wear to sleep [14:37] Sleep Candy can help you fall asleep and stay asleep at night.  [16:07] It’s scary, but true: sugar is hiding everywhere! Find out which sugars to choose and which to lose in the Sugar Impact Diet.   [17:13] Listener’s review on iTunes [18:30] JJ wants to hear from you! She could choose your question for her next podcast episode.   Mentioned in this episode: Dry Farm Wines 7-Day Stop, Drop & Swap Challenge Sugar Impact Diet True Dark Glasses Samina beds Sleep Candy The Virgin Diet JJvirgin.com JJ Virgin Official Facebook page JJ Virgin on Instagram JJ Virgin on YouTube Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices