Why Sleep Should be your #1 Priority
Sleep is one of the most fundamental aspects of our health and well-being (we actually think it’s the MOST important), yet it’s often neglected or undervalued. However, the importance of sleep cannot be overstated, as it is crucial for both our physical and mental health.
Why should sleep be your top wellness practice? And how prioritizing sleep can benefit every aspect of your life? Read on!
1. Sleep is essential for physical health
Sleep is essential for the proper functioning of our bodies. It is during sleep that our bodies repair and rejuvenate themselves. The body releases growth hormone during sleep, which promotes muscle repair and growth, bone density, and immune function. Lack of sleep has been linked to a variety of physical health problems, including obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Studies have shown that people who sleep less than six hours a night have a higher risk of developing these conditions.
Sleep is also important for maintaining a healthy weight. Lack of sleep disrupts the hormones that regulate appetite, causing us to crave unhealthy foods and eat more than we need. In addition, sleep deprivation lowers our metabolism, making it harder to burn calories and maintain a healthy weight.
2. Sleep is crucial for mental health
Sleep is not only important for our physical health, but also for our mental health. Lack of sleep can cause irritability, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating. Chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. It can also impair cognitive function, making it harder to learn, remember, and problem-solve.
On the other hand, getting enough sleep can help improve our mood, reduce stress, and increase our ability to cope with challenging situations. Studies have shown that people who get enough sleep are more resilient to stress and have better mental health overall.
3. Sleep is essential for productivity and performance
Sleep is also essential for productivity and performance. When we are well-rested, we are more alert, focused, and productive. We are able to think more clearly, make better decisions, and work more efficiently. Lack of sleep, on the other hand, can impair our ability to concentrate, slow down our reaction time, and make us more prone to mistakes.
In addition, sleep is crucial for athletic performance. Athletes need adequate sleep in order to perform at their best. During sleep, the body repairs and restores the muscles and other tissues that have been used during exercise. Lack of sleep can impair an athlete's performance, making them more prone to injury and less able to recover from workouts.
4. Sleep is crucial for learning and memory
Sleep is also crucial for learning and memory. During sleep, the brain consolidates and strengthens the memories and skills that we have acquired during the day. Studies have shown that people who get enough sleep are better able to learn and remember new information, while those who are sleep-deprived have a harder time retaining what they have learned.
In addition, sleep is important for creativity and problem-solving. Research has shown that people who get enough sleep are better able to come up with creative solutions to problems and think outside the box.
5. Sleep is important for social and emotional well-being
Finally, sleep is important for social and emotional well-being. Lack of sleep can cause irritability, moodiness, and other emotional problems. It can also impair our ability to connect with others, leading to social isolation and loneliness. On the other hand, getting enough sleep can improve our mood, increase our ability to connect with others, and enhance our overall quality of life.
In addition, sleep is important for our relationships. When we are well-rested, we are better able to communicate effectively with others, manage conflicts, and maintain healthy relationships. Studies have shown that couples who get enough sleep are happier and more satisfied in their relationships than those who are sleep-deprived.
Okay, so…
How to prioritize sleep in your wellness routine
Now that we have explored the many benefits of sleep, you may be wondering how to prioritize it in your wellness routine. Here are some tips for getting better sleep:
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Stick to a regular sleep schedule Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This can help regulate your body's internal clock and improve the quality of your sleep.
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Create a relaxing bedtime routine Develop a relaxing bedtime routine to help you wind down before sleep. This may include taking a bath with magnesium flakes, reading a book, or practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation. Moisturizing your skin with Dermal Nectar Body Oil or a cream-based Magnesium Lotion is another great addition to your pre-bed ritual.
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Create a sleep-conducive environment Make sure your bedroom is cool, dark, and quiet. Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows, and use blackout curtains or a charcoal sleep mask to block out any light.
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Limit caffeine and alcohol intake Avoid consuming caffeine or alcohol in the hours leading up to bedtime, as they can interfere with sleep. And if you do sip a cocktail make it a zero-proof with.
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Exercise regularly Regular exercise can help promote better sleep, as long as it is done earlier in the day and not too close to bedtime.
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Practice good sleep hygiene We all know by now to avoid using your smart phone/tablet before bedtime as the blue light they emit interferes with a good (necessary!) night’s rest. In addition, avoid eating heavy meals or engaging in stimulating activities before bedtime. And if you need a little extra boost, a supplements like Liposomal Sleep or Magnesium Threonate can help or Loose Leaf Herbal Teas by Leaves & Flowers goes beyond your basic Celestial Seasons “Sleepytime.” We suggest their Sleep, Serinitas or Ikebana blends in the evening.
Sleep is a crucial aspect of our health and well-being, and prioritizing it can improve every aspect of our lives, from our physical and mental health to our productivity, performance, and relationships. So, next time you're tempted to stay up late or sacrifice sleep for work or other activities, remember that getting enough sleep is one of the best things you can do for your overall health and well-being.
Photo: Siobhan Sleeping with Cat (1993) by Nan Goldin