The Importance of Sleep

Sleep is a natural and vital bodily function which allows both our bodies and minds to recharge and re-energize. Sleep is so important as it allows us to focus, concentrate and complete daily tasks each day. Those who do not achieve the right amount of sleep each night can be left feeling lethargic, un-motivated, and distracted. On average adults should be sleeping between 7-9 hours per night, with children and teenagers requiring considerably more sleep per night since their bodies and minds are still growing and developing. When working on your fitness and wellbeing as a personal goal, whether this is for your health or your mental wellbeing, your sleep cycle should be considered. Despite the short-term negative effects, a lack of sleep can have on the body, it can also impact our health in the long-term as Wellbeing365 explains. 

The benefits of sleep 

Sleep is great as it gives our bodies a time to recharge so we can begin each new day feeling fresh, awake and alert. However, it also offers a number of other great benefits for our general health. Indicating just how important the right amount of sleep is for our health and wellbeing. 

These benefits include: 

• Improved attention and concentration
• Sleep allows you to work coherently 
• Helps to create a positive mindset 
• Allows you to learn and generate memories 
• Reduces your stress levels 
• Better sleep will improve your mood and help you maintain good relationships 
• Sleep can boost your immune system 
• Sleep can strengthen your heart 

For those who sleep the recommended number of hours each night may benefit from a healthier heart and stronger immune system, as well as a greater mental state and the ability to maintain a healthy weight. 

A consecutive lack of sleep can be dangerous for your health and wellbeing. It wont just make you feel tired and lethargic, in fact it can put your health at risk. With a lack of sleep being linked to medical conditions such as obesity, heart disease and diabetes. It may even shorten your life expectancy. 

Tips for better sleep 

So many adults have issues sleeping at night, for so many reasons, whether this is due to sleep disturbances, anxiety, depression, or common sleep disorders. For those who struggle to get a good night’s sleep, there are a number of tips which may help you improve your sleep routine. For example: 

• Reduce screen time before bed and increase time spent in daylight throughout the day
• Limit your caffeine intake throughout the day 
• Exercise regularly to burn your energy
• Reading before bed 
• Create a bedtime routine which allows you to wind down 
• Reduce daytime naps
• Sleep at consistent times 
• Speak with your doctor regarding your sleep disorder and discuss the options for supplement use 
• Create a bedroom environment which is comfortable and peaceful 
• Take a relaxing bath, use essential oils like lavender to contribute to a sleep routine