When it comes down to it, sleep is essential for every single process that takes place in our body. When you don’t get enough sleep, you’re not just in danger of feeling tired. You’re in danger of damaging your physical, mental, and emotional health. In fact, getting enough sleep can even help prevent you from getting into car accidents. Because sleep affects every aspect of your health, it’s incredibly important to do everything in your power to get enough sleep. Here are some of the specific health benefits of good sleep.
Health Benefits of Good Sleep
A Boosted Immune System
With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, immunity is on everyone’s mind. And the fact is, one big reason why sleep is important is that it can help boost your immune system. When your body gets good sleep, it’s better prepared to fight off colds, flus, and other diseases.
Better Heart Health
The quality and duration of your sleep can have a big impact on your heart health. In fact, some studies have shown that not getting enough sleep can lead to heart issues ranging from high blood pressure to heart disease.
Improved Mood & Mental Health
We’ve all had the experience of waking up from a great night of sleep feeling well-rested, energetic, and cheerful. And the more great nights of sleep you have, the better you’ll feel. But it’s not just your day-to-day mood you have to worry about. Poor sleeping patterns have been linked to several mental health concerns, including anxiety and depression.
Increased Concentration & Productivity
Want to perform better at your job? Ditch the all-nighters and work on getting better sleep. The same goes for your kids and school. Since better sleep is linked to improved concentration and higher cognitive function, you can end up doing more harm than good when you prioritize work and homework over getting a good night’s sleep.
Fewer Accidents
Not getting enough sleep isn’t just detrimental to your own health, it can even be dangerous to others. That’s because even small amounts of sleep deprivation can contribute to dangerous car accidents. Not only can you be injured or killed in an accident caused by slower reaction times or falling asleep at the wheel, but you also have the potential to harm others, including any passengers in your own car.
How to Get Good Sleep
Start with Your Mattress, Pillows & Bedding
If you want to get better sleep, it makes sense to start with what you’re sleeping on. Many people keep sleeping on their mattresses even after it’s past its prime. Check out these nine signs you need a new mattress and make sure your mattress isn’t to blame for poor sleep. If you do need a new mattress, make sure you do your due diligence when mattress shopping. If, for example, you suffer from health problems like snoring, acid reflux, or back pain, an adjustable base bed could greatly improve the quality of your sleep. Even if you’ve recently purchased a high-quality mattress, your pillows could be preventing you from sleeping soundly through the night. In fact, experts recommend replacing your pillow every one to two years for optimum comfort and support. You’ll also want to consider your bedding. Especially if you tend to wake up too hot or sweaty, temperature-regulating sheets and bedding could help you get better sleep.
Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment
Wondering how to get better sleep? Consider your environment. In fact, your bedroom should be designed with your sleep hygiene in mind. One good place to start is the lighting. You’ll want your bedroom to have warm, dimmable lighting that won’t disrupt your sleep patterns. Plus, you’ll want to block out any harsh natural light with blackout curtains. From there, you’ll want to eliminate clutter, which can wreak havoc on your relaxation. You might also consider making your bed every morning, as this can help make the room feel calmer and keep your bedding in place for that perfect tucked-in feel. Willing to give your bedroom a new coat of paint? Try choosing soothing colors like pale blues, greens, and pinks, as well as beige or white, which can make you feel more relaxed. You can even try adding some plants, which can boost your mood, reduce stress, and naturally filter air pollutants for a better night’s sleep.
Practice Good Sleep Habits
Sleep hygiene doesn’t just include your environment, it also includes your sleep habits. If you want to take advantage of all of the health benefits of sleep, you may need to alter your habits. Going to bed at the same time every night, for example, can help increase the quality of your sleep. You might also want to avoid drinking caffeine after 3pm and avoid drinking alcohol altogether, as both can make your sleep worse. Even eating dinner too late in the evening can have negative effects on your sleep. You’ll also want to try to avoid looking at your phone before bed. Not only can the blue light disrupt your sleep, but having access to your phone in bed can tempt you to stay up later scrolling social media or responding to emails.
Now that you understand why sleep is important, it’s time to take whatever steps you need to start getting better sleep. One good place to start is by shopping for a new mattress, pillows, sheets, or bedroom furniture for your home. In the meantime, check out our mattress and sleep blog, where we cover everything from how to fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer to 10 reasons you should buy your next mattress from Star Furniture.
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