Why we all need more sleep . . . .
Unlocking the Mysteries of Sleep: More Than Just Rest
When it comes to sleep, most of us see it as a time to rest and rejuvenate. However, the truth is there is actually so much going on in our bodies while we sleep. We’ve been told that it’s important to get 8 hours of sleep but most of us haven’t been told WHY that is important. So, I put together a list of reasons of why it is sooo important to make sure you’re getting enough sleep.
Memory Formation and Consolidation: While information gathering primarily occurs when we're awake, the magic of memory happens when we are sleeping. During deep sleep, your brain gets to work, encoding and solidifying memories that you acquired throughout the day. Think of it as a librarian organizing books into a long-term storage archive, ensuring you can recall them later with ease.
Energy Conservation: Did you know that your metabolism takes a break when you do? During sleep, your body's metabolism slows down by up to 10%. This energy-saving mode allows your system to focus on more critical tasks than the usual activities like talking, thinking, and eating. It's as if your body switches to a low-power mode to allocate resources where they're needed most.
Tissue Healing and Growth: Ever wonder why growing children need more sleep? It's because the production of Growth Hormone, essential for building new tissues, peaks during the overnight hours. While you sleep, your body capitalizes on the energy it's saved from not being active to repair and grow, ensuring you wake up refreshed and rejuvenated.
Immune System Function: Your body's defense against illness gets a significant boost during nighttime hours. The numbers and activity of immune cells are higher while you sleep, making it a crucial contributor to long-term health. A good night's rest empowers your immune system to fend off threats and keep you in top shape.
Microbiome Management: Surprisingly, sleep also plays a role in maintaining a healthy gut flora. Adequate sleep promotes a thriving microbiome, the collection of microorganisms living in your digestive tract. When your microbiome is in harmony, it can positively influence your overall health, from digestion to mood.
Sleep is not merely a time to rest—it's a dynamic and intricate process that encompasses memory enhancement, energy conservation, tissue growth, immune system reinforcement, and even microbiome management. So, the next time you crawl into bed, remember that your body is hard at work, ensuring you wake up ready to face a new day, both mentally and physically prepared. Also, here are some of my favorite tips to promote restful sleep:
Dim the lights an hour before bed
Turn off electronic devices an hour before bed
Turn off your wifi router to reduce EMF exposure
Light nontoxic candles
Showering before bed
Drinking tea before bed
Stretching or practicing yoga
Only have one cup a coffee a day before noon
Take a shower, bath, or wash your face
P.S. (x2) if you’re having a hard time falling to sleep I highly recommend purchasing this goodnight/magnesium lotion. I use it every night and it has really elevated my sleep game! Sweet dreams!
