What do you do when getting enough sleep isn't an option?

[greenemami]

That pretty much sums it up...between working (from home, mostly at night) nursing, and getting up with the kids, there is just no way to get enough sleep. and I am exhausted, on the verge of burnout. My dp is working like crazy too, because we are right on the verge of being completely broke. We are both self-employed and he is often gone all day and all night working. I don't have options for any kind of regular help, although I can get a break here and there from my family (they all work too though) and we definitely can't afford a babysitter.

So-what can I do to keep my body together and moving?! I take a prenatal vitamin (just restarted it regularly), take vitamin D3 2000 units a day, and have ben working on upping my protein and whole grain carb intake. Is there anything else I can do? I find myself slipping into caffeine again, which I dont' like to do because I am nursing, but I just need to stay awake and alert with two little ones at home all day. Please help!

[leafwood]

water. tons of water.

[kl5]

I have used bee pollen in similar situations, which helps a lot. I think it is the B vitamins, so consider adding a B complex supplement if you have one around. And be kind to yourself.

[mellowjello]

I agree B vitamins. And to support your adrenals there are a handful of helpful vitamins/minerals, I know a big one is B5.

Deep breathing can simulate the benefits of sleep.
http://hubpages.com/hub/yoga-deep-br...and-techniques

Light exercise (walking) can also help keep you balanced.

Do you have anything that inspires you? With all that energy you are giving out, you need some energy coming back into your system.

I hope your situation improves soon!!!!

[kjbrown92]

Make sure you're getting enough fats too. It's very important for energy. I had much more energy when I quit caffeine completely.