Sleeping well is key for your wellbeing. A good night’s sleep can depend on your day’s mood and emotions. Without a doubt, a poor night’s sleep results in struggling through the next day. Keep reading to find out why getting enough sleep is so important, and the risks that come with not sleeping well. We’ll also share some helpful tips so you can get the sleep you need.
Benefits of Sleeping Well
Getting enough sleep is important for the following reasons:
- Improves your attention and concentration – A lack of sleep can mean both your body and brain don’t function properly the next day. It could affect your attention span, concentration, strategic thinking, and your reaction time.
- Learn and make memories – Your brain begins to organise and process all the information you’ve taken on during the day. It converts your short-term memories into long-term memories.
- Helps you maintain a healthy weight – Being sleep deprived could increase your appetite, because it changes the levels of hormones that signal hunger and fullness in the body.
- Keep your immune system strong – Sleep gives your body the time it needs to repair and rest when you are ill. It supports the processes and cells of your immune system to destroy any invaders your body might come across, like the common cold.
- Looks after your emotional and mental wellbeing – The importance of sleeping well isn’t just looking after your physical health, but there are psychological benefits too. For example, mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety can be reduced by good sleep. Having a lot on your mind, feeling upset, anxious, or worried, may contribute to a poor night’s sleep.
- Reduces stress levels – Your body releases a ‘stress hormone’ called cortisol which can keep you awake. When we struggle to sleep, cortisol can increase, making it even more difficult to sleep well.
- Maintain good relationships – It’s no secret that a bad night’s sleep can leave you feeling grumpy. Sleeping well can help put your mind in a positive headspace. The amount of sleep you have can affect your language, reasoning, and communication, which are all important aspects when you are building relationships with others.
And most importantly…
- Keep your heart healthy – A lack of sleep can increase your risk of developing high blood pressure, diabetes, coronary heart disease, and stroke. Your sympathetic nervous system stays stimulated at night.
How to Get a Good Night’s Sleep
If you’re experiencing problems sleeping, how about trying something new? Rather than taking medication, it is always best to try finding ways to fall asleep naturally. We know that can be easier said than done, however.
Here are our tips for getting a good night’s sleep.
- Stick to a sleep schedule. Set aside no more than 8 hours for sleep. If you can’t get to sleep, then we suggest reading or listening to soothing music then going back to bed when you’re tired.
- Pay attention to what you eat and drink. Don’t go to bed hungry or full and don’t consume caffeine late in the day. It is recommended not to consume caffeine within the six hours before bedtime.
- Create a restful environment. Keep your room cool, dark, and quiet. Consider using room-darkening curtains or blinds, earplugs, or a fan.
- Add a physical activity in your daily routine. Spending time outside everyday might be helpful.
- Manage worries. Jot down what’s on your mind and set it aside for tomorrow. Start with the basics, such as getting organised, setting priorities, and delegating tasks.
If you are struggling with sleep long-term, we recommend speaking to your GP. Your doctor’s advice could be the key to getting a good night’s sleep. It may also help reduce some of the stress, as they will be able to talk you through why you may be struggling to sleep. It’s important to look out for your welfare.
Peace of Mind at Home
It’s important to feel comfortable and confident in your own home. Worrying about your wellbeing could contribute to poor sleep. With a personal alarm from LifeConnect24, help is always available at the press of a button. When your alarm is activated, our Response Team answer and speak to you through the alarm base unit. They will assess the situation to arrange the support you need, whether it be family, friends, or the emergency services.
To find out more about the LifeConnect24 personal alarm service, read our helpful guide or view our products. If you have any further questions about our alarms, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can call on 1 800 937543 or use our contact form.
Editor’s Note: This article was updated on 11th January 2024.
