The power of a good night’s sleep

When we sleep, we are unconscious and practically inactive. Our muscles are relaxed and we have our eyes closed.

Sleep is a very important part of our daily living. We believe that going without food for several days can kill but research has shown that sleeplessness kills faster than not eating. This is because sleeplessness can lead to serious health issues such as heart disease which can lead to stroke and other issues.

As we age, our sleeping pattern changes which might include waking up frequently, and not being able to have a sound sleep as before.

Adults who find it difficult to sleep well are more likely to suffer memory loss, fatigue, depression and various types of health problems. A very good night’s sleep is very important to our physical and emotional well-being.

Adults who find it difficult to sleep are prone to various kinds of health problems. Sleep improves our immune system and our metabolism. Click To Tweet

Sleeping problems can be caused by different life challenges. Some of them are highlighted below.

• As we age some of us become too sensitive to light and noise, so at any small sound, we wake up and find it difficult to go back to sleep.
• Women going through menopause may find it difficult to sleep because of hot flushes and night sweats.
• Some health conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis and the need to go to the toilet often can lead to sleeplessness.
• Life challenges such as the death of a loved one, divorce or financial problems can cause so much stress; and anxiety can disrupt one’s sleep pattern.
• Insomnia which means having difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep is in itself a big problem.
• Some medications can have stimulating effects and thereby affect your sleeping pattern.
• Taking a nap during the day can reduce the drive to sleep in the evening.
• Not having the right pillow and mattress is also a key factor that prevents one from achieving good sleep. I just found out that the springs inside the mattress expire, just like drugs expire. And this is one of the reasons some of us wake up feeling tired and with body aches.

Research has proven that lack of sleep kills faster than lack of food. Sleeplessness should not be taken lightly. Click To Tweet

We need to sleep because it improves our immune system and metabolism. Within the brain, sleep enriches our ability to be active and improves our concentration. Sleeplessness should not be taken lightly. If we want to live very healthy lives, we must get to the root of what is robbing us of sleep and find a solution.