No one really knows why we sleep – or why we seem to function best on 8 hours a day. One thing is for certain: not enough sleep is bad for your health!
Why is a good night's sleep essential?
Sleep allows the body to rejuvenate and repair itself. Lying down allows the joints and muscles to relax fully and rest. It allows you to maintain a healthy hormone balance.
Not sleeping enough is known to raise your risk of heart disease, kidney disease, obesity high blood pressure, diabetes and stroke. It also puts you at greater risk of having or causing an accident as your ability to concentrate is impaired. Serious sleep deprivation could even make you nod off spontaneously – not good if you're driving!
How much sleep do I need?
The amount of sleep you need decreases as you age. A baby may spend around 16 hours a day sleeping in a series of naps whereas an adult needs between 7 and 8 hours sleep and will usually take that in one long period overnight.
Children and babies will benefit from taking naps to add to their total amount of sleep. Adults that need to nap may be in sleep debt – where they have not been taking enough sleep during the night.
How can I sleep better?
If you are suffering from sleep debt or insomnia there are a few self-help measures you can take:
- Put down your phone. Blue light from electronic devices can interfere with your body's sleep cues preventing you from dropping off. Put your phone away at least an hour before bedtime
- Check your mattress and pillows are supportive enough and replace if required.
- Have a winding down ritual to signal to your body that it's time to sleep. Dim the lights, turn off the TV and turn the alarm clock to the wall so you can't watch the seconds ticking away if you don't sleep immediately.
- Keep your bedroom for sleeping. Your brain doesn't need to think it's time to watch TV when you should be nodding off.
Finally, why not try spraying your room and bed with sleep-inducing or relaxing essential oils contained in our Spritz Wellness Sleep Atmosphere Mist. Lavender and Chamomile are time honoured scents known to promote a good night's rest – allowing you to wake rested and ready to tackle the day ahead.
