Sleep and rest
Research suggests that sleep is one of the most important contributors to both physical and mental health.
Why are rest and sleep important?
Sleep is much more important than most people realise; sleep is essential for growth, tissue and cell repair and re-charging the body ready for the next day. During the day the organs, especially the heart, are under pressure and sleep allows them to rest in preparation for working hard the next day. Sleep lowers blood pressure which reduces the likelihood of suffering from illnesses such as strokes or heart disease. Sleep also has an important role in mental development, as it allows the brain to organise and store the memories of the day.
Benefits of sleep
Having a good night’s sleep can make you feel much more energised and ready to take on the day ahead. Sleep also helps to improve your concentration and helps you to be mentally alert; this makes you more productive at school or work. Sleep also allows you to feel happier, balanced and well-rested; a bad night’s sleep can make you feel irritable, detached and stressed.
Effects of sleep deprivation
Sleep deprivation affects our ability to concentrate and make decisions. A lack of sleep also causes many people to have mood swings, feel teary and irritable and to get stressed in situations where they would normally feel fine. Physically, extreme tiredness can hamper the development of the immune system, which can make a person prone to suffering from illnesses or infections. Sleep deprivation has also been directly linked to hypertension, heart disease and depression.
How much sleep do we need?
Babies and young children need lots of sleep in order to allow their bodies and minds to develop fully; babies aged under 6 months usually sleep for up to 16 hours each day; this gradually decreases as they get older; by the age of 2 most children sleep only at night and do not need naps in the day. Children aged between 10 and 12 should get at least 9 hours of sleep each night and adults should try to sleep for at least 7 hours each night.
Help with sleeping
Many people suffer from troubles related to sleeping; in most cases this is related to stress. Stress and anxiety cause the mind to be over-reactive and make it hard for you to relax and switch off. People who suffer from problems sleeping may be advised to seek holistic advice which may include trying herbal remedies, hypnotherapy or therapies to reduce stress. It may also be beneficial to consult your GP who will be able to offer advice.