Sleep is important in your quest for good
health. For example, binge sleeping on the weekends is less healthy than just
getting 1 or 2 additional hours of sleep. The body has an internal sleep clock
known as the circadian rhythm. The internal clock resets when sleeping pattern
is altered.
Experts believe the circadian rhythm is
highly governed by the amount of light a person is exposed to. Ways to set your
internal clock include dimming the lights around bedtime, brightening light in
the morning and sticking to a predetermined bedtime and wake time every day of
the week.
Below are a few of the ways in which sleep
deprivation (not having optimal amount of sleep for your age) affects your
health and lifestyle:
Grades – Students who get the proper amount
of sleep are able to solve problems and apply reasoning to difficult concepts
because sleep allows the brain to function at its optimal level. Lack of sleep
often results in a lower grade point average. Students are less alert, less
able to concentrate and less likely to retain what they learned. As a result,
they get poorer grades on assignments and tests. Those who stay up too late
also have trouble waking up on time in the morning. This results in poor
attendance, which causes them to miss crucial information that directly affects
their grades. Poor grades definitely have negative impact on the psyche of any
student and their folks.
Athletics – Those who participate in sports
require proper amount of sleep to perform well during the game. Sleep
deprivation causes lack of judgement and poor reflexes. Athletes need to be
alert and able to focus on all the different aspects of the game. They need
quick reaction time, but lack of sleep reduces both speed and efficiency. Poor performance
can result in game-related injuries to the athlete and other team members.
Mental and physical health – One of the
benefits of getting enough rest is an improvement in mood. Students who fail to
get enough sleep are more prone to be sad, stressed out, depressed, angry or
mentally exhausted. They may have more emotional problems than those who get
the appropriate amount of sleep. Lack of sleep weakens the immune system and
increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure and diabetes.
Adequate sleep replenishes the body’s energy supply, which promotes overall
health.
Focus – Lack of sleep causes a shorter
attention span and lack of focus. This affects the ability of students to pay
attention in class or while doing their homework. It also affects driving and
machine operation, which can be very dangerous. According to the national
Highway Safety Traffic Administration, over 100,000 accidents are caused by
those who are tired.
The amount of sleep needed on a daily basis
varies with age. The recommended allotment of sleep for children between the
ages of 7 and 12 is 10 to 11 hours of sleep every day. Adolescents between the
ages of 12 and 18 should be getting between 8 and 9 hours of sleep every day.
However, many experts, including the
national Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, recommended 9 hours
for adults.
A
good night’s sleep is important for optimal health, learn to “switch off” often
and enjoy a happier, healthier life after.
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