Sleep is an Important Part of Life
Sleep is an Important Part of Life.
As a child, more time is spent in sleep for body development and growth. Progressing through the different growth stages requires a set amount of sleep in each stage. As adults, the body is fully developed and only mainly needs sleeps for rest and repairs, the healthy adult requires much less sleep than a child.
With the hectic fast-paced life of modern society, many people feel that they can function on only a few hours of sleep. In this manner, there is more time to accomplish more of the planned tasks for the day. Unfortunately, the body requires a specific amount of sleep time and keeps track of how much the body receives.
Sleep Catch Up Results
Some people try to “catch up” on the sleep requirement by sleeping longer on the weekend or their days off. These only cause problems since this act will upset the sleeping pattern afterward. It is harder to fall asleep the night after sleeping the extra hours since the body is rested. The end result, the whole sleeping schedule is affected.
That is only the sleeping problem. The physical and emotional problems still have to be dealt with the next day. A sleepless night can leave the body tired and unable to fully function. The sluggishness can’t be washed away with cups of coffee. The brain “fog” inhibits normal thinking and slows reaction time. The peak performance is gone!
Tips For Good Sleep
Here are some tips to get a restful sleep:
1. Turn down the lights so the body will produce melatonin-a hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycles. The light from computers and tv block the body production of melatonin.
2. If you can’t sit quietly and listen to soft music, try reading a book with the lights turned down. Tv will stimulate the mind, not calm it. No scary or murder mysteries story.
3. Make the night time routine different than daytime. Worry and stress problems are for the daytime. Calm and relaxed mind is required for nighttime sleep. Give yourself permission to have a different mindset for the night.
4. It is recommended that more than 5 hours and less than 9 hours of sleep for adults.
5. Barring any health problems, sleep in a position that is normal and comfortable for you.
6. Sleep in a dark, cool room when possible.
In the morning feeling rested and alert is what is important!
Want more information about sleep problems and steps you can take to get relief?
Read Dr. Steven Park’s blog about his findings as an Ear, Nose, Throat (Otolaryngology) doctor/medical surgeon (Head & Neck Surgery). Board-certified in Sleep Medicine
“Click Here” to start reading his experiences helping his patients solve their problems.