Stress, a busy lifestyle and a hectic job are just a few of the issues that can cause you to miss out on a good night’s rest. Skimping on sleep can have negative consequences on your physical and mental health.
Why Sleep is Important
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends adults between the ages of 18 to 60 get seven or more hours of sleep every night. The benefits to getting enough sleep are plentiful, including:
- Improving memory
- Cleansing the body of inflammation
- Increasing creativity
- Performing better at work and school
- Focusing
- Controlling weight
- Being happier
Basically, sleeping well can help you live better.
The Dangers of Poor Sleep
Your body repairs itself while you sleep. If you don’t get enough shut eye, colds and other illnesses take longer to heal. Since your blood vessels are not healing, you put yourself at risk of cardiovascular disease.
Insulin is released by your body when you don’t get enough sleep. This can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and makes it harder to maintain a healthy weight because your need to eat will increase. Your mood will decrease, and your decision-making abilities will become impaired. You may even begin to lose interest in people, relationships and activities that you used to enjoy.
Get a Good Night’s Rest
In order to make sure you are getting enough sleep, you will need to identify what is causing you to lay awake.
Stress
While removing the stressors is ideal, that is not always possible. Stretching can help release the tension built up in your body throughout the day. Meditation and yoga can help you clear your mind before bed.
Uncomfortable Environment
Take some time to make your bedroom the perfect environment for you to feel comfortable. A new mattress, pillows or bedding can help you snuggle in for a good night’s sleep. Weighted blankets have become increasingly popular, helping people feel more secure while sleeping. Blackout curtains can prevent light from waking you up, and a sleep sound machine can drown out any interruptions. An eye mask and earplugs can also make sure you are not woken up during the night.
If you are still having trouble falling and staying asleep, you may have an undiagnosed sleep disorder. Contact the professionals at Carolina Ear, Nose, Throat, Sinus & Allergy today to get started with treatment.