January 9 - Sleep Tight

When talking about general health, subjects most often discussed are exercise, nutrition and supplements. But don't forget one of the most important key factors to overall good health - sleep!

Sleep is probably best described as the loss of awareness of what is happening around us. The brain itself never sleeps and still continues to function, although the brainwave rhythms are altered and gradually slow as we approach the deeper stages of sleep. It is very important for body functions for you to reach these deeper stages of sleep. Sleep consists of a series of distinct cycles and stages that restore and refresh your body and mind. Even minimal sleep loss takes a toll on your mood, energy, efficiency, and ability to handle stress. If you want to feel your best, stay healthy, and perform up to your potential, sleep is a necessity, not a luxury.

If daytime sleepiness were the only side effect of lack of sleep it may not be something to be concerned about. But unfortunately lack of sleep can lead to many medical problems. Some of the signs to look for in sleep deprivation is stress and anxiety, anger, irritability and depression, lack of focus and difficulty concentrating and even short term memory loss. People who are sleep deprived suffer from more colds and infections as sleep deprivation suppresses the immune system.

Sleep isn’t merely a time when your body and brain shut off. While you rest, your brain stays busy, overseeing a wide variety of biological maintenance tasks that keep you running in top condition and prepare you for the day ahead. Without enough hours of restorative sleep, you’re like a car in need of an oil change. You won’t be able to work, learn, create, and communicate at a level even close to your true potential. Regularly skimp on “service” and you’re headed for a major mental and physical breakdown.

So get your beauty sleep!