Health experts have been reminding us about the benefits of sleep for decades. Some studies have shown that adequate sleep is critical to staying awake, focused and alert, sustaining good health and working at peak performance.
However, it can be hard to get a good night’s sleep in this day and age where competition is at an all-time peak and you’re trying to be as productive during the day as you can.
The bottom line is, it’s important never to neglect your sleep so that you stay fit and healthy. Nothing can replace the health benefits of sleep!
The Benefits of Sleep
Here are a few fascinating benefits of sleep you probably don’t know about:
Improves your memory and cognitive function
Sleeping is a way to reset your body. While you’re asleep, the body repairs itself and it works to rejuvenate itself. Moreover, while you’re sleeping, neurons transmit impulses through new pathways, thus improving your memory.
Helps you concentrate better
A good night’s sleep is essential if you want to do well at work or school. Your concentration span will be a lot better if you get a good night’s sleep and you won’t find yourself feeling drowsy or sleepy.
Boosts your immunity
While you’re sleeping, your body releases certain cytokines and proteins that help boost your immunity. Getting at least 8 hours of sleep every day is vital to keep your immune system at its toes. This tip should be especially helpful for healthcare workers who are exposed to many infections and diseases!
Improves your mood
Getting adequate sleep boosts your mood. You wake up feeling better and more refreshed. Thus, getting a good night’s sleep is the best preparation for the next day!
Helps you keep those extra pounds off
Sleeping helps you stay fit and prevents weight gain. How? Well, while you’re asleep, your body releases more of the hormone leptin, which gives your brain the signal that it’s full. On the other hand, while you’re awake, your body releases more of the hormone ghrelin, which activates your hunger center and makes you crave carbohydrates and fats.
Reduces stress
One of the benefits of sleep is stress reduction. Sleep deficiency can cause your body to release high amounts of the stress hormone, cortisol. When you get adequate sleep, the levels of cortisol in your body are much lower.
Keeps your heart healthy
Sleeping is important to regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which directly affect heart health!
These are a few of the many benefits of sleep!
What is an “adequate” amount of sleep?
If you’re an adult or older, you need about 8 hours of sleep every night. Ideally, 7-9 hours of sleep is considered appropriate.
For teenagers, children and infants, you need a lot more sleep and the optimum amount varies in each age group!
Sleep Hygiene
If you want to get a good night’s sleep, don’t forget to practice appropriate sleep hygiene. Here are a few tips that will help you sleep better at night:
- Do not turn on any screens or devices at bed time.
- Dim the lights of your room
- Don’t have tea or coffee after evening
- Have a light snack before bedtime
- Try to keep your schedule consistent. Sleep at the same time every day
- Work out in the evening so you’ll be tired and get a good night’s sleep later
So, what are you waiting for? Follow these tips and get a good night’s sleep every day! After all, there’s literally nothing more important than getting adequate sleep.
But if you still find yourself tossing and turning at night, you can try using CBN oil for sleep and insomnia. It has therapeutic properties that can help anyone have a good night’s sleep.