Sleep. A basic need that we as humans all share. When we achieve good quality sleep, we can enjoy a host of fantastic benefits. Let’s take a look at some below.
- Improved concentration leading to easier learning
A well-rested mind is energised and more able to stay focused. Naturally, improved concentration makes it easier to retain information, boosting your capacity to learn. If you have an important exam coming up, make sure you’re getting enough shut eye. It might seem counter-intuitive to stop revising and take a break, but it is vital.
- Safely stored memories
Sleeping allows the brain the opportunity to convert short-term memories into long-term memories. You can think of it as your brain getting the chance to catch up on its filing; organizing and storing everything it needs to from during the day.
- A strengthened immune system
In these times of Covid this has never been more at the forefront of our minds. By getting a good night’s sleep you are allowing your body chance to rest, repair cells, and build the strength it needs to defeat any germs you come into contact with.
- Improved heart health and weight management
Poor sleep is known to contribute to incidences of heart disease. Scientists believe this is because lack of sleep increases the risk factors for heart problems, such as high blood pressure, inflammation, insulin resistance, increased stress hormone (cortisol) levels, and obesity. It might seem a strange notion, but having enough sleep is a vital part of ensuring you maintain a healthy weight. If you’re not sleeping enough this impacts the hunger hormones, making it more difficult to control your appetite and making you much more likely to reach for the instant sugar hit of unhealthy snacks.
- Improved Emotional health and wellbeing
Sleep helps us on an emotional as well as a physical level. If you are anxious you may find it hard to sleep; and if you aren’t sleeping enough, it will contribute to your anxiety, as your body then produces the stress hormone cortisol, which has the effect of keeping you awake. It’s a vicious cycle that it’s important to break. Turn off all gadgets at least an hour before bedtime, avoid caffeine and sugar later in the day, and ensure your bedroom is free of distractions and at a comfortable temperature. I also recommend mindfulness exercises to calm your mind before bed.
- A brighter outlook on life and relationships
A well-rested person will naturally have a more energetic and positive outlook on life, ready to take on challenges and chase up opportunities. This positive attitude will also reflect in their communication with others, leading to strengthened relationships.
Tonight, take the opportunity to properly wind down before bed, so you’re in a calm headspace and can enjoy a good night’s sleep. As you can see, the benefits are fantastic.
