Sleep. It restores, rejuvenates and repairs our bodies and refreshes our minds. Unlike what you may have believed in your twenties, sleep is not optional – in fact it’s essential to good health. Researchers have found a link between insomnia and heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, poor memory, weight gain—and even shortened lifespan. According to a study published by the American Psychological Association, sleep has been proven to be the single most important factor in predicting longevity.
While you’re sleeping, your brain is actually very active, literally detoxing (like ‘defragging’ the hard drive of your computer)
And yet, some see it almost as a badge of honour to say that they’ve ‘worked around the clock’ to get that report out in time, or they’re exhausted from working so hard. Margaret Thatcher boasted about needing only 4 hours of sleep per night, manifesting in early onset dementia! We think it’s far better to get a good night’s sleep so you’ve got the energy and motivation to achieve the productivity you want. Aim for a minimum of 6 and optimally 8+ hours quality sleep. A great day depends on getting a great night’s sleep!
Here are some tips for getting a good night’s rest:
⦁ Blue light from electronic devices interferes with melatonin production so avoid being on the computer or watching TV at least TWO hours before bedtime
⦁ A cool bedroom temperature improves quality of sleep. 20 C is best for most people.
⦁ Have a bedtime routine. Relax and wind down before you go to bed. Read a bit, listen to soft soothing music, massage yourself with some relaxing oils like lavender, take a warm relaxing bath, meditate, deep breathing and visualization might help as well to get you in a calm relaxing state.
⦁ Exercise is one of the best science-backed ways to improve your health and the quality of your sleep ( don’t exercise late at night though)
⦁ Avoid drinking fluids 1-2 hours before you go to bed to prevent needing the bathroom in the night.
‘Sleep is the best meditation.’ – Dalai Lama