6 Benefits of a Good Night's Sleep
We all know how important enough sleep is to our well being, but leading busy, stressful lives often puts getting a full 8 hours on the backburner.
However, getting enough sleep is vital to keeping our bodies and minds functioning optimally, and can even help protect us against chronic illness and disease. Here are 6 reasons why you should prioritize restful sleep.
Strengthens Your Immune System
Now is the time to prioritize health, namely your immune function. Getting enough sleep has been scientifically proven to improve your body's ability to fight off infection, and a lack of it is closely linked to several common illnesses. Ensuring a full eight hours of sleep per night will help you stay disease-free and improve health in the long term.
Maintains Your Weight
Have you ever felt hangry? Sleep deprivation disrupts your hunger hormones, and can cause you to overeat or crave unhealthy foods like sugar or refined carbs. Staying well rested helps balance these hormones, keeping your appetite regular and maintaining your weight.
Improves Mental Health
While mental illnesses are not directly caused by poor sleep, those who deal with anxiety and depression are more likely to have sleep problems than those who don't. Treating sleeping disorders can alleviate symptoms of mental illness, as sleep deprivation can wreak havoc on the brain.
Boosts Your Mood
It's no surprise that sleep quality significantly affects mood. There's nothing more refreshing than a good night's sleep, and we all know the feeling of irritability that follows a restless evening. It seems the phrase "waking up on the wrong side of the bed" isn't so far from the truth after all.
Improves Your Memory
Even if you don't dream (or more likely don't remember your dreams) that doesn't mean your brain isn't working as you sleep. As you slumber, your mind processes the memories of the day, and if you miss out on precious hours of sleep, you might forget things more easily or even create false memories.
Improves Your Appearance
It's called beauty sleep for a reason. While a busy life might not allow for a full 8 hours, imagine the time you'll save if you don't have to spend time in the mornng concealing, brightening, and otherwise making yourself 'look awake' for morning meetings.
