Benefits Of A Good Night Of Sleep

Ever feel like you can’t function without that extra cup of coffee? Okay, let’s get real..that third cup of coffee that is the dregs at the bottom of the pot, lukewarm, but still full of caffeinated promise? I know I sometimes need it, or at least think I do enough to gulp it down. That need for the extra oomph from a cup of joe could mean it might be time to reevaluate how much sleep you’re getting. Getting a good night’s sleep is incredibly important for your overall health and well-being. From reducing stress, to maintaining…ahem… natural energy levels( I’m lookin’ at you Coca Co-bleep! No product placement allowed.), to helping with concentration, there are many benefits to ensuring you get your Zzzzs, so you don’t get the Ztztzs (that’s your teeth chattering from the over-caffeinated jitters.)

Getting restful sleep helps reduce stress levels, aids in concentration and memory retention, and can even help with weight management. After a long day, a night’s rest helps us recharge our bodies and mind, so we don’t depend on caffeine for artificial energy (AI meet AE, you’re both in the doghouse.)

Studies have shown that people who get 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night are more productive throughout the day and better able to process information quickly than those who don’t get enough rest. Processing information quickly is helpful, especially when it’s in the form of “Oh that dinosaur is about to eat me, I should probably run.”

Let’s talk about sleep hygiene. Practicing good sleep hygiene means setting aside time for yourself each night before bed and creating an environment conducive to sleeping. This could include turning off electronics at least one hour before bedtime, keeping your bedroom cool, asking your roommate/spouse/teenager to not shout lines of dialogue at the top of his lungs when playing video games at 10 pm, using blackout curtains or eye masks if necessary, avoiding caffeine late in the day or drinking chamomile tea, and trying relaxation techniques such as stretching or guided meditation before bed.

The thing is, making sure you prioritize getting enough quality sleep should be on your list when taking care of yourself. If you struggle with getting enough shut-eye each night, you’re not alone and there are solutions! Try talking with your doctor or healthcare provider about ways you can take control of your sleeping habits. Doing it now will ensure that you are well-rested and ready to take on whatever life throws you; a great new job, a single overripe tomato, or a surprise visit from an aunt wearing enough bad perfume to fill a stadium! I mean, you’re well-rested after all (and still have some masks on hand.)

The truth is, sleep plays an essential role in our physical and mental well-being, and we often make excuses for not getting enough Zzzs or underestimate its importance in our lives. Making sure we get enough quality restful sleep is essential for living life to its fullest – so don’t forget – make those Zzzz’s a priority!

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