Of couse we look better when we're rested. During sleep, the body has a chance to shed dead skin cells, repair damage, and make new collagen. This is why so many skin care products are applied at night. They work in conjunction with the body's natural processes.
However, more than looking good, sleep affects our health. Without adequate rest, human beings don't function properly. Poor or inadequate sleep has been directly linked to heart disease, stroke, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and a host of other debilitating health conditions.
Typically, we all have the occasional one-night bout of insomnia. This is nothing to worry about. But if you're routinely sleeping 6 hours a night or less, you're building up a sleep deficit that may likely cause memory problems, weight gain, along with all the the aforementioned health problems. If this is you, it's time to take action before your health really suffers.
If you find it difficult to get enough sleep, there are a few things you can do to improve your sleep habits. For example, avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed, establish a regular sleep schedule, and create a relaxing bedtime routine. You should also avoid working or using electronic devices in bed. If you have chronic insomnia, you may need to see a doctor for treatment.
Do you struggle with sleep? Share your story . . .
@DerdriuMarriner I've updated this article significantly so I think it answers yours questions.
In particular, I appreciate the suggestions about arranging primal sleep-friendly rooms, meditating, releasing anxiety and stress and taking herbal baths and teas. It's all part of being pro-active about emotional, mental and physical health.
The third paragraph in your first subheading, Beauty Sleep, mentions that "if you're routinely sleeping 6 hours a night or less, you're building up a sleep deficit that may likely cause memory problems, weight gain, along with all the the aforementioned health problems."
If one must pattern 6-hour sleeps because of personal or professional commitments, would it counter the above-mentioned health problems by fitting in naps? And would an hour be a beneficial nap length or would napping have to be longer, perhaps 2 hours, to make for an 8-hour resting total each day?
Good deal :)
My blood pressure is under control, as I am medication for it, and have been for a few years. Thanks. With being effectively retired, I am able to take rests in mid afternoon now, and this is doing me some good.
@frankbeswick Chronically disturbed sleep can make your blood pressure go up so have that checked. Good luck!
@nightbear Sorry to hear that, but naps rejuvenate you too.
Since childhood I have had broken sleep, and it has been sixty or more years years that this has begun happening. It is part of who I am .But I have been ensuring that I get enough sleep during the night and the afternoon. How much difficulty am I in?
some health problems disturb my sleep. Never had a problem before that. And I do love to sleep. I find I take more naps now.
@boutiqueshops Another 'benefit' of aging. Thanks for commenting!
As I've aged, I've had more and more trouble getting enough sleep. This is a great resource!