The Importance of Sleep

Who does not like to sleep? After a long day at work or when you are very tired, closing your eyes for a while is a pleasure that many enjoy. But sometimes sleeping becomes a problem. Lack of time and insomnia means many people don’t get the optimal quantity of sleep.

Sleep is not just for pleasure, it is a physical need. Lack of sleep can result in many physical problems beyond just fatigue. In today’s pressurised society, many people don’t get enough sleep. Work, computers, television and video games are the adversaries of sleep. Sleep deprivation can become a serious problem if it turns into a habit. Poor sleep often results in an unproductive day, without energy for work or school and irritability.

Good sleep is essential for recharging and facing the day ahead. Waking up repeatedly during the night and having a restless sleep can also have negative physical and mental effects. Sleep deprivation can result in simple fatigue, headaches, nausea and dizziness or more serious heart and respiratory problems.

An adult should aim to sleep an average of 7 to 8 hours a day. A power nap of between 20-30 minutes can relieve fatigue during the day if the optimal amount of sleep is not achieved at night. Some tips for sleeping well:

• Avoid noise and light in the room.
• Turn off TV when sleeping.
• Avoid heavy meals before sleeping.
• Try to keep to a routine, going to bed at the same time every night.
• Drink a warm infusion before sleep.