Are you getting enough sleep? 5 Benefits of sleep you need to know about

“A good laugh and a long sleep are the best cures in the doctor’s book.” – Irish Proverb. You’re here because you are curious about your sleeping habits. Are you getting enough sleep to truly live your best life?

Equally as important as eating would have to be sleeping. There are a plethora of facts out there on the importance of sleep and the benefits of sleep on mental health. If you’ve ever gone multiple days in a row of getting terrible sleep, you know that it changes you in all ways.

The amount of sleep you need depends on how much energy you exert each day. On average, most humans need from 7-8 hours. Some people can get by with only 6 hours, but if you find that you are getting 6 hours of sleep yet exhausted, it’s not enough.

In order to receive all of the health benefits of sleep, you must have good habits or a routine in place.

This post is all about the benefits of sleep.

The Benefits of Sleep

1. Better Mood

It’s really embarrassing to be super cranky when you’re normally not. A lack of sleep can directly affect your mood. You are likely to be much more irritable and have way less patience- typically.

Avoid feeling terrible and accidentally yelling at toddlers and elderly folks by getting enough sleep to regulate your mood.

If you’re wondering why sometimes you lash out, it could be due to a lack of sleep.

2. More Energy & Better Productivity

Getting your hours of rest in can lead to better days. You’ll have the energy to get more things done and be productive. Stop relying solely on Starbucks and coffee and start prioritizing a natural source of energy- sleep.

3. Think More Clearly

Getting enough rest can help you think clearly. Your brain will have enough energy and willpower to make better decisions and be more rational.

There is a reason people always suggest “sleeping on it”. Sleep before making any big decisions. You’ll be more rational and least likely to do something unlike what you would do otherwise.

4. Lower Stress Levels

When you’re tired you’re bound to make more mistakes and mess up. These small mistakes can compound and have you feeling anxious and stressed. Calm down, relax, and take a nap. It might make you feel better. Doing anything tired sucks anyway.

5. Sleep Strengthens Immune System

When people get sick, they feel a sense of fatigue. It’s their body’s way of trying to heal itself. It needs rest to rejuvenate and heal.

Most people know that this is true. When you are young and you catch a cold, doctors and parents both suggest that the child stay home, drink plenty of fluids, and REST.

Staying home from school is fun ONLY WHEN you’re not actually sick. Otherwise, you truly spend the entire day sleeping, and by the time you wake up from your 4th nap, school is out and everyone is home anyway. Bummer.

Bonus Sleep Benefit: Helps maintain a healthy weight

People who are consciously aware of their sleep are different kinds of people. We all know it’s true. People who have no idea the amount of sleep they get generally lack awareness in several aspects of their lives altogether, let’s be real.

Chances are if you keep track of your sleep, you also keep track of your health. Besides, “late-night snacking” can’t happen if you’re not up late.

In Closing,

I hope you find these benefits important enough to prioritize sleep. Try prioritizing sleep for a week straight and see what happens. At the very least, you’ll notice what’s blocking you from getting enough sleep to live your best life.