World Sleep Day: Why your sleep is so important?

With World Sleep Day just around the corner, we thought we’d take a look at why your sleep is so important.

This year’s World Sleep Day theme is Sleep is Essential for Health which focuses on how, just like eating well and exercising, sleep is a behaviour that is foundational to one’s physical, mental and social well-being.

Although not commonly considered an essential for good health, sleep helps to recharge your body and mind. It also helps the body remain healthy and stave off illness.

Most adults require 7-9 hours of nightly rest, whilst children and teens need substantially more.

To ensure you get an adequate amount of rest each night, a healthy diet and positive lifestyle habits are key.

An insufficient amount of rest can often lead to serious repercussions. Some studies show that sleep deprivation leaves people vulnerable to attention lapses, delayed reactions, and mood shifts. Lack of rest has also been linked to a higher risk for certain diseases and medical conditions.

Adults who do not receive enough sleep each night can implement some positive lifestyle habits in order to log their 40 winks:

• Make your environment as comfortable as possible, ensuring your mattress is right for you and your pillows and sheets are best for your preferences and body type.
• Reduce your intake of caffeine, alcohol and large meals in the hours leading up to bedtime
• Exercise during the day to help you wind down in the evening and prepare for bed
• Establish a bedtime routine and stick to it every night where possible
• Maintain comfortable temperature settings and low light levels in your bedroom
• Consider reducing your screen time on televisions, computers and tablets, cell phones and other electronic devices in your bedroom