With daylight savings ticking over last weekend, now is a great time to readjust your sleep schedule and make an effort to get the most out of every nights sleep.
A good nights sleep has a plethora of benefits; improving mood, productivity, physical and mental health as well as quality of life.
Whilst we sleep our brains are working to prepare for the next day and forming new neural pathways that will help us to learn and retain information. Our other systems and organs also benefit from a good night sleep. Sleep helps to regulate our hormones, is involved in the repair and healing of our heart, other organs and blood vessels as well supporting overall growth and development.
Almost more important than the benefits of sleep are the risks of sleep deficiency, or simply not getting enough sleep. The occasional night here or there with not enough sleep isn’t too much to worry about, but ongoing sleep deficiency can lead to increase risk of high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, diabetes and obesity.
Tips for getting a better night sleep:
1. Be physically active during the day
2. Avoid alcohol and smoking before bed
3. Switch off electronic devices an hour before going to bed
4. Keep your bedroom phone/laptop free
5. Read for 15-20mins before sleep
6. Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule, going to bed at the same time most nights and getting up at the same time each morning