In today’s fast-paced world, sleep is often overlooked and pushed to the bottom of our priority list. However, getting enough rest is essential for maintaining your overall health and well-being. Sleep is not just a time for your body to recharge; it is a critical period during which your brain processes information and when your body heals.

A good night’s sleep is crucial for improving brain performance, enhancing your mood as well as supporting overall health. According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NIH), here are a few ways quality sleep impacts various aspects of your physical health:
• Heart health: Sleep plays a key role in healing and repairing your heart and blood vessels. Chronic sleep deficiency can contribute to heart-related issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke.
• Hormonal balance: Sleep is vital for maintaining a healthy balance of hormones that regulate hunger. When you are sleep-deprived, the hormone ghrelin, which makes you feel hungry, increases, while leptin, the hormone that makes you feel full, decreases. This imbalance often leads to overeating and weight gain.
• Immune function: Your immune system relies on sleep to fight off infections. When you are not getting enough rest, your body’s natural defenses weaken, making it harder to fend off common illnesses.

Beyond its physical benefits, sleep is closely linked to mental health disorders. Lack of sleep can exacerbate feelings of stress, anxiety and depression as well as make it more difficult to cope with daily challenges. According to the NIH, sleep deficiency has been linked to depression, suicide, and risk-taking behavior.
“Sleep is not just a time for rest; it’s a vital component of mental health,” says Christine Nwaiser, MD, sleep medicine specialist at Mather Hospital. “When we invest in quality sleep, we empower our minds to cope with stress, enhance mood, and improve overall resilience.”

By prioritizing quality rest, you are investing in a healthier, happier and more balanced lifestyle. The next time you consider pushing off sleep, remember the benefits it offers your body and mind.

 

Resources:
https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2021/04/good-sleep-good-health 
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/sleep-deprivation/health-effects