The Importance of Sleep on Health

How often would you say you get a good night sleep? Although the definition of ‘good night’ will vary from person to person, it can loosely be defined as at least 7 hours of uninterrupted sleep where you wake feeling refreshed and revitalised. Albeit this is easier said than done, a good sleep schedule is imperative to our mental and physical wellbeing. 

In this blog, we will be exploring sleep and its benefits on our well-being and share some expert tips along the way. 

Let’s start with what happens when you sleep…according to the sleep foundation.

‘When you sleep, your body undergoes a series of changes that enable the rest that is vital to your overall health. Sleep allows the brain and body to slow down and engage in processes of recovery, promoting better physical and mental performance the next day and over the long term. What happens when you don’t sleep is that these fundamental processes are short-circuited, affecting thinking, concentration, energy levels, and mood. While the biological role of sleep still isn’t fully understood, research demonstrates that it reinforces the cardiovascular and immune systems and helps regulate the metabolism. Sleep affects your heartbeat, breathing, muscle tone and also your hormones. So you may be very relaxed, but your body and mind are busy regenerating!’

But What Happens if you Don’t Sleep Very Well?

Some people may struggle with sleep for many different reasons, such as a sleep disorder, ill mental or physical health and some just struggle for no apparent reason. But what is the impact of this on your mind and body? 

Following only one night of poor sleep, you are likely to notice you feel fatigued, short-tempered and have more difficulty concentrating. Although not sleeping for a few nights isn’t detrimental to your long term health, continued poor sleep can be.   

Have you read our previous blog about sleep? Read it here. 

How do I get into a Good Sleep Schedule?

Here are some tips to get you started. (It is important to note, this is just guidance. If you are having difficulties with sleep we would always recommend that you consult your doctor). 

1. Try to avoid screens at least 1 hour before bed. Especially your phone. Using your phone and/or devices with blue screens will encourage brain stimulation and interrupt your body’s natural circadian rhythm. 
2. Spend at least 30 minutes unwinding before bed. This could be having a quick shower,  then reading a book in bed or having a cup of herbal tea whilst taking off your makeup. Whatever it is, make sure it’s non-disruptive and calming. 
3. Try to stick to a regular sleep routine, going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. This may, of course, be more difficult on the weekend, but try not to deviate from your usual routine too much. This maintains your body clock and improves the chances of ‘good’ sleep. 
4. Prepare for tomorrow, today. This could be as simple as pre-packing your bag the night before or popping a packed lunch in the fridge ready for the next day. It could also mean writing a to-do list for tomorrow. This preparation will hopefully limit stress and free up headspace. 

If you struggle with sleep and its debilitating effects, we can help. 

To enquire with one of our dual-trained Occupational Therapists get in touch now.