Conclusions
I have now spent a bit of time with you introducing the first component. In a previous essay, I suggested that this component is probably the most important yet elusive of the four components. I turn to exercise as the first component one pathway to sleep. This pathway is particularly important—yet is elusive like many of the other component one pathways. Exercise is not always easily engaged for those of us who are leading demanding (but physically passive) lives. I have identified some of the reasons why exercise impacts on quality of sleep (either directly, in delayed fashion or indirectly). I have also pointed to several ways in which exercise can be sustainable through the achievement of both intrinsic (autotelic) and extrinsic (avocational and vocational) rewards.
I would suggest that you consider visiting a website that has been recommended by AARP if you are interested in exploring various exercise options: the ACE Exercise Library of the American Council on Exercise (go to AceFitness.org and click on Education, then under For All, select Exercise Library). Meanwhile, I should stop writing and you should stop reading—we both need to engage in a bit of physical activity.
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References
Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1990) Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience. New York: Harper Collins.
Sapolsky, R. (2004) Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers (3rd Ed). New York: Holt.
