In today’s fast-paced world, a good night’s sleep has become something of an indulgence. It’s fallen down our list of priorities behind work, chores, social time, and entertainment.
However, sleep shouldn’t be a luxury. It’s as important to your physical and mental health as food and water.
The body’s need for sleep is a relatively new research field. Scientists are looking into what happens to the body during sleep and why the process itself is so essential. We do know that sleep is necessary to:
This can result in serious problems in the workplace and at home.
Chronic sleep deprivation has been shown to increase the risk for serious health conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and depression. It can also affect your immune system, reducing your body’s ability to fight off infections and disease.
- How much sleep is needed for different age groups
- The benefits of a consistent sleep schedule
- Tips for improving sleep quality
- Common sleep disorders and how they can be treated
- The effects of caffeine, alcohol, and technology on sleep
- The importance of creating a sleep-conducive environment
If you have a specific question about healthy sleep, I’d be happy to provide more information and guidance.
Certain factors influence how much sleep you’ll need. Genetics can determine how long you sleep. Your genes can also play a role in how well you respond to sleep deprivation.
Likewise, the quality of sleep you get when you’re catching Zzz’s is a factor in how much sleep you ultimately need each night. People who get good quality sleep without waking up may need a little less sleep than people who frequently wake up or have trouble staying asleep.
Each person has unique sleep needs. Learn more about what determines yours — and how you can get more shut-eye.