Just like exercise and nutrition, sleep contributes to our overall health. In addition to reducing our ability to think clearly, be productive and safe, poor sleep can increase our risk for developing a chronic disease.
Here are some benefits of getting 7-8 hours of sleep a night. TIP: Keep a pad of paper and pen beside your bed and jot down thoughts, troubles and to do lists before falling asleep.
Benefits
- You will be less likely to get sick.
- You will be more likely to stay at a healthy weight.
- You can lower your risk of high blood pressure and diabetes.
- You can boost your brainpower and your mood.
- You can think more clearly and do better in school and at work.
- You can make better decisions and avoid injuries.
For example, sleepy drivers cause thousands of car crashes every year.
Recommendations
- Keep your bedroom dark and quiet.
- Keep computers and televisions out of the bedroom.
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol and smoking within a few hours of bedtime.
- Try to go to bed at the same time every night.
- Do not watch t.v. Shows, movies and games that are violent or troubling immediately before going to bed.