The holidays are fast approaching, and with endless gatherings, to-do lists, and the countdown to the end of the year, sleep is often sacrificed. For the sake of your physical and mental well-being, it will be essential to monitor your sleep over the coming months. Free and confidential individual coaching is available to improve your sleep hygiene.
Sufficient sleep
Unravel the assumption that you can function effectively with minimal sleep. The amount of eye closure you get is a direct reflection of how your body responds to everything else. Insufficient sleep can affect everything from your weight and increased risk of heart disease to your mental health and concentration. Aim for seven to nine hours a night so your body has a long enough cycle to relax, reset, and recover.
Cognitive function
Do you feel confused or have trouble remembering basic details? This could be due to lack of sleep. Sleep is essential for cognitive functions and affects your ability to think clearly, make decisions, and process information. Even when you’re resting, your brain is working hard. A good night’s sleep is essential for daily functioning, such as being alert, exercising problem-solving skills, and having emotional and social intelligence. Conversely, lack of sleep can lead to irritability, mood swings and decreased motivation.
Physical health
Sleep is just as important for your physical health as it is for your mental health. Quality sleep leads to hormonal regulation which directly affects appetite, immune function and performance. Insufficient sleep can make you more vulnerable to weight gain and poor metabolism, illness, burnout and lethargy – whether it’s endurance and energy during a workout. training or even when performing the simplest tasks like emptying the dishwasher.
Chronic conditions
The development of chronic diseases is often linked to the lack of healthy lifestyles, such as proper diet and exercise. Sleep should not be neglected. Insufficient sleep increases the risk of developing hypertension, diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, depression and anxiety. Your entire body will feel stronger from the sleep you give it, leading to lower risks.
The perfect recipe is as simple as good sleep equals good health. Through all the stages of a good sleep cycle, your body prepares itself to wake up feeling refreshed and with optimal brain and body function. Even if you sometimes have poor nights of sleep, keep in mind how vital a good night’s sleep is. Don’t neglect sleep, give it priority!