Getting a good night of sleep has numerous benefits for both our physical and mental health. It can improve focus and memory, boost our immune system, regulate our mood, and even help with weight management. So why not treat yourself to a cozy bedtime routine and prioritize getting those zzz’s? Here are all of the benefits of getting a good night of sleep.
Improved attitude and mood:
Have you ever wondered why you were having a bad attitude one day only to remember how terribly you slept the night before? Sleep helps regulate our emotions and can improve our ability to handle stressful situations. Perpetually being exhausted can seriously negatively affect our relationships and interactions with others which means that getting the right amount of sleep is important not only for ourselves but for our relationships with others!
Better memory and focus:
Sleep helps consolidate memories and improve cognitive function, making it easier to retain information and stay focused during the day. Our brains are hard at work during sleep, organizing and processing information from the day. So next time you have a big test or project coming up, make sure to get plenty of shut-eye!
Stronger immune system:
Lack of sleep can weaken our immune system, making us more susceptible to getting sick. Getting enough rest can help keep those pesky colds and flus at bay.
Physical health benefits:
Getting enough sleep can also have positive effects on our physical health, including improved heart health and decreased risk of obesity. So not only will getting a good night’s rest leave you feeling more energized during the day, it can also help in maintaining a healthy lifestyle long-term. Having the energy to exercise or even just properly function is critical to a long and healthy life.
Weight management:
Lack of sleep can throw off hormones that regulate hunger and satiety, leading to increased cravings for junk food and ultimately weight gain. Getting a good night’s rest can help regulate these hormones and keep our bodies in a healthy weight range. Whether or not you’re actively exercising or have fitness goals in mind, getting the right amount of sleep is an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
So, How Much Rest Do You Need?
It varies from person to person and also changes throughout our lives, but the National Sleep Foundation recommends around 7-9 hours for adults. So make sure to prioritize your bedtime routine and get those zzz’s! Even if you have early mornings, busy schedules, or other excuses for not getting enough sleep, remember all of the benefits and make it a priority.
Tips for optimizing deep sleep:
If you struggle with falling asleep or getting deep, consistent rest, there are some steps you can take to improve your sleep hygiene.
Develop a Bedtime Routine and Stick to it:
Most of us are animals of routine, and having a consistent sleep schedule can improve the quality of our rest. If our bodies are following a routine and expecting that it’s time for rest then you’ll be able to fall asleep easier, giving you more time to rest and recover.
Have a humidifier:
Dry air can disrupt our breathing and make it harder to fall into a deep sleep. Having dry sinuses can lead to respiratory concerns and breathing trouble, which will regularly disrupt your sleep patterns, preventing you from reaching necessary REM sleep. Investing in an ultrasonic cool mist humidifier for your room can help improve the quality of your rest. If youre craving a deep sleep and want a solution for dry air, we highly suggest getting an ultrasonic cool mist humidifier.
Avoid screens before bedtime:
In today’s age this can be difficult, but looking at screens before bedtime can disrupt our natural sleep patterns and make it harder to fall asleep. While it’s tempting to double check Instagram or watch one more show before bed, try reading a book or listening to calming music instead.
Limit caffeine intake in the afternoon or evening:
This may seem obvious but avoiding caffeine close to bedtime can improve the quality of our sleep. Caffeine is a stimulant and can keep us feeling wired, making it harder to fall asleep and get those restful zzz’s. Try caffeine-free alternatives that won’t keep you stirring and leave the coffee for the morning.
Exercise during the day:
Getting out some energy during the day can help promote a restful sleep at night. However, refrain from exercising too close to bedtime as it may have the opposite effect and leave you feeling too energized to fall asleep! If you work long hours and can’t dedicate time to a specific workout, even getting in some steps during the day on your lunch break or for a short walk after dinner can help.
In Conclusion
Make sure to prioritize your sleep and give yourself the gift of a good night’s rest. Your body, mind and social circle will thank you! Avoid exhaustion and being in a bad mood by getting the right amount of rest.