Written by Emily Copeland BSPH
It’s time to show ourselves some love! Daylight Savings Time throws off sleep schedules for many people - not just the little ones.
Getting enough sleep each night is a “little” thing to do that yields BIG health benefits, for all ages.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, it is recommended that adults get 7-9 hours of sleep each night and the exact amount can vary from person to person. Why is sleep so important?
- Sleep allows your body and brain to repair, restore, and re-energize. Proper sleep improves your memory and focus while also fostering better emotional health.
- Non-REM sleep occurs in three stages: Stage N1 is falling asleep. Stage N2 is your light sleep and Stage N3 is deep sleep or Slow Wave Sleep. Much of the health-promoting functions such as tissue repair and strengthening your immune system happen during stages N2 and N3.
- REM sleep occurs about 90 minutes after you fall asleep. You tend to have vivid dreams during REM sleep because your brain is more active and stimulated to help with learning and remembering the information absorbed during the day.
- Going to sleep at the same time each night allows your circadian rhythms to stay in sync. By staying in sync, the body is more efficient at repairing, resting, and re-energizing its processes. When bedtime is inconsistent, it can lead to obesity and diabetes, along with other conditions.
Try to hit the hay a little earlier than usual tonight to catch some extra Z’s. Your body & mind will thank you!