GOOD SLEEP FOR GOOD HEALTH

Source: https://www.ewiworks.com/blog/blog-healthy-sleep-hygiene-habits/

Getting sufficient rest is just as crucial as maintaining a nutritious diet. Despite the notion held by some that sleeping is insignificant, it actually plays a crucial role in our daily lives. This is because sleeping is a vital process that enables our mind and body to slow down and engage in restorative activities, enabling us to unwind, recover, recharge and revitalize so that we feel renewed and alert the next day. Insufficient sleep can impair brain function and disrupt our daily routines.

Source: https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-are-the-symptoms-of-sleep-deprivation-3015161

Inadequate sleep can result in reduced energy, feelings of fatigue, as well as impacting growth and stress hormones, our immune system, appetite, breathing, blood pressure, and cardiovascular health. Additionally, it can lead to increased irritability, a short temper, and heightened stress levels, which can negatively impact your emotional and social interactions.

To sustain a healthy lifestyle, it is crucial to prioritize not only physical health by exercising and maintaining a healthy diet but also our mental and emotional well-being. Neglecting adequate rest for our mind and body can result in reduced productivity and attention throughout the day.

Maintaining a healthy sleep schedule can lead to numerous benefits, including increased productivity and concentration, decreased risk of illnesses, a stronger immune system, and reduced weight gain. Additionally, getting enough rest can provide a boost of energy to start the day. The optimal duration of sleep recommended for various age groups is 7-9 hours for young adults, adults, and senior citizens, 12-17 hours for infants and toddlers, 10-13 hours for children, and 9-10 hours for teenagers per day.

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Source: https://www.drbrahma.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/WEB001/

To ensure you’re well-rested, do keep a consistent sleep schedule and set your bedtime early enough to guarantee you had enough hours of sleep. Maintaining consistency by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, even on weekends, can improve the body's sleep-wake cycle. Additionally, the selection of appropriate pillows and beds is crucial for enhancing sleep quality, as there are a variety of materials and firmness options available to cater to individual preferences and needs.

Ultimately, try to clear your mind of any worries or concerns before bedtime to prevent yourself from overthinking as it will elevate your stress levels. You may want to try doing some simple stretches or meditation exercises to calm yourself. Finally, ensure that your environment is comfortable enough for you to fall asleep in, the perfect environment would be a cool, dark and quiet room. Always remember, “sleep is the golden chain that ties health and our bodies together”.

References:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325353#sleep-recommendations
https://www.sleepfoundation.org/how-sleep-works/benefits-of-sleep
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/sleep/sleep-needs-get-the-sleep-you-need.htm