In today’s go-go-go culture, sleep often takes a backseat, but this neglect comes at a huge cost, one we sometimes only notice once it’s too late. Read on to learn what you can do today to help reverse that trend!
The adage “I’ll sleep when I’m dead” not only undermines our current health but might speed up our trip to an early grave. Sleep is not a passive state like most believe; it’s a dynamic activity during which much of the body and mind’s processing, restoration, and healing occurs. In his book, “Why We Sleep,” Matthew Walker provides compelling evidence that links insufficient sleep with a host of serious health issues, including immune system breakdown, cardiovascular disease, obesity, as well as reduced earning potential across your lifetime, and a shortened life expectancy.
At the heart of the sleep-health connection is the vital role that sleep plays in brain function. REM sleep, which is rich with vivid dreaming, is crucial for emotional regulation and creativity. High-quality sleep fosters better problem-solving abilities and stronger emotional resilience. It’s no surprise, then, that sleep deprivation can impair these functions, leading to poor decision-making and increased emotional volatility.
Non-REM sleep, or deep sleep, helps prevent cognitive overload. It is during this stage that the brain is essentially detoxifying, clearing out the day’s metabolic waste and preventing the brain circuits from becoming overloaded. Those who miss out on sufficient sleep, particularly deep sleep, miss this critical restoration stage, which, over time, can lead to cognitive decline and memory impairment.
Moreover, sleep is fundamental to creativity and productivity. The detrimental effects of sleep deprivation on the body’s ability to regulate everything from emotions to logic to blood sugar are profound. A startling study highlighted by Walker revealed that sleeping less than six hours per night equals billions of dollars in lost productivity for the United States. This is due to an increase in employee illness, brain fog, low energy, lack of creativity, and an increase in “freeloading” on projects.
Emerging therapies like red light therapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) show promise in enhancing sleep quality, which could be a goldmine for those struggling with sleep issues.
Red light therapy, known for its ability to influence melatonin production and adjust circadian rhythms, may help individuals fall asleep more quickly and enjoy deeper, more restorative sleep.
Similarly, HBOT, traditionally valued for its healing and anti-inflammatory benefits, is now being explored for its potential to improve sleep by enhancing brain oxygenation and circulation. HBOT also helps reduce stress, increases energy, and upregulates genes associated with longevity and immunity.
One strategy organizations with employees can consider is flexible work hours. Some people function best as larks, and would thrive with a 0600 start time; the night owls would be most productive with a 0900 start time. Staggering start times would not only increase productivity but would also reduce traffic congestion and sleep-related car accidents.
Recognizing the crucial role of sleep-in maintaining health, preventing disease, and improving lifespan is essential to wanting to implement strategies that promote healthy sleep habits. Some actionable, scientifically proven strategies that will help boost sleep is:
- Setting an alarm for a consistent bedtime and wake up time – and giving yourself an 8-hour sleep opportunity window. Sleeping in on weekends will only make your grogginess worse on Monday morning!
- Reducing exposure to blue light before sleep. This could include everything from wearing blue light blocking glasses, to removing electronics from the bedroom, and changing out your light bulbs to warm/incandescent.ones.
- Creating a restful sleeping environment. Get your pets out of the bedroom, if possible, as this alone can significantly improve your sleep quality. Adding blackout curtains and removing visual clutter will also help.
Ultimately, sleep is a powerful yet underappreciated pillar of health and longevity. It is as vital as the air we breathe and the food we eat. By prioritizing sleep, we make a significant investment in our overall health and enhance our quality of life. As ongoing research continues to reveal the broad-reaching benefits of sleep, it becomes increasingly clear that improving sleep quality remains a key focus in boosting public health and extending years of disease-free life.
Follow us on social media to learn more! You can also book a complimentary exploratory call with Yuliya at Elixir Health and Wellness by visiting www.elixirlv.com .
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