Sleep to keep healthy

We all know we should be getting between 7-9 hours of sleep a day, right? But why exactly? There are many negative effects on our bodies if we don’t get enough sleep –

Memory issues

During sleep, our brains process and retain new information. Lack of sleep can negatively impact both short- and long-term memory.

Brain power

Our concentration, creativity and problem-solving skills can all be affected by lack of sleep.

Weight gain

Chemical signals to the brain communicating that we are full do not function correctly when we are sleep-deprived, meaning that we are more likely to over-indulge.

Higher risk of accidents

Being drowsy can increase risk of car accidents and other injuries.

Compromised immune system

When we don’t get enough sleep, our immune systems are not able to properly protect the body from infection, and we increase our risk of developing high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes.

As we sleep our bodies are working hard to heal wounds and restore sore or damaged muscles. Our bodies make more white blood cells while we sleep which help to attack viruses and bacteria to keep us healthy.

Our top tips for getting the sleep you need to keep healthy

Stick to a regular sleep schedule

This will help your biological clock to know how much sleep your body needs each day.

Cancel the worrying

If you are feeling anxious about something, or something is playing on your mind, note it down on paper and pick it up the next day when you are more rested and equipped to deal with it.

Have a relaxing bedtime routine

Ditch the screens, work, and stressful conversations. Try to relax by taking a warm bath, reading, or trying a relaxing technique before you go to sleep.

Get regular exercise

Regular exercise can improve the symptoms of many sleep disorders and problems. 30 minutes or more of activity every day is ideal – but not too close to bedtime.