7 Health Benefits of Sleep That May Surprise You

Last Updated on January 6, 2023 by Lori Geurin

Did you know that getting a good night’s sleep is one of the best things you can do for your health? It’s true! Sleeping well helps your body in a number of ways, from improving your mood to boosting your immune system. Here are seven benefits of sleep you might not know about.

The Importance of A Good Night’s Sleep

This article will explore the health benefits of sleep and why it’s so important for busy women and moms. We’ll look at the implications of a lack of sleep, such as how it can affect our health, mood, and productivity. And finally, we’ll see why getting a night of good sleep is so crucial for our well-being.

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Sleep Video on the Importance of Rest and Sleep

Here’s a quick video about sleep benefits.

Printable Sleep Tracker

Using a sleep tracker can help you make sure you’re getting enough shut-eye. Click the link below to check out our printable sleep tracker!

1. Sleeping allows your body to rest and repair itself from the day’s activities.

Getting enough sleep is crucial for health, physical recovery from exercise, and everyday wear and tear on your body.[*] During sleep, your body releases growth hormones that help repair cells and tissues. When you’re sleep-deprived, your body can’t adequately heal itself, which may lead to health problems over time.

2. During sleep, your brain consolidates memories from the day.

While you sleep, your brain is busy processing the day’s events and memories. One of the advantages of sleep is that it helps consolidate those memories into long-term storage.[*] This means that you’re less likely to forget what you learned or experienced during the day when you get a good night’s sleep.

3. Sleep deprivation makes you more susceptible to illness.

A lack of sleep weakens your immune system, making you more susceptible to illness.[*] When you’re sleep-deprived, your body can’t fight off infection as well as it normally would. A good night’s sleep is important for staying healthy and preventing getting sick.

4. Poor sleep can lead to weight gain.

Experts found that a lack of sleep is connected to gain weight.[*] When you’re tired, you may have less energy to exercise and be more likely to crave unhealthy food. Not getting enough sleep can also disrupt hormones that regulate appetite, leading to increased hunger and overeating.

5. Lack of sleep can cause mood swings and depression.

Poor sleep can cause mood swings and lead to feelings of depression.[*] When you’re tired, you may feel more irritable and have a harder time controlling your emotions. In severe cases, sleep deprivation can even lead to suicidal thoughts. The mental health benefits of sleeping well are just as important as the physical advantages.

6. Sleeping helps regulate your hormones.

Scientists discovered that not getting enough sleep can disrupt your hormones, which can lead to health issues.[*] Sleep deprivation can interfere with the production of leptin, a hormone that regulates appetite, and ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates hunger. This can lead to weight gain and difficulty losing weight.

7. Getting enough sleep can improve your skin health.

Sleeping allows your skin to rest and repair itself. When you’re sleep-deprived, your skin may look tired and dull. Lack of sleep can also lead to more breakouts and acne. Studies have shown that getting enough sleep each night can help keep your skin looking healthy and radiant.[*]

There are many benefits of getting a good night’s sleep. Getting enough sleep is crucial for maintaining your health and well-being, so make sure to get those Zzz’s!

Tips for Better Sleep

Wondering how you can get a better night’s sleep? Check out these tips and tools!

• Make your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool.
• Establish a regular sleep schedule.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed.
• Avoid working or using electronic devices in bed.
• Get exercise during the day.
• Practice relaxation techniques before bed.

For more on how to get a sleep better tonight, check out:

• How CBD Can Help You Get Better Sleep, Relax and Lessen Pain
• Relaxing Sleep Music To Help You Sleep Better Tonight
• 16 Quick Tips To Help You Sleep Better Tonight
• How To Sleep Better With Chronic Back Pain
• How To Sleep Better With Lyme Disease

Should You Sleep With Socks On?

I don’t know about you, but I love sleeping with socks on in the winter. There’s something about wearing socks to bed that makes me feel cozy and snug. But is it actually good for your health to sleep with socks on?

As it turns out, wearing socks to bed can help keep your feet warm, which is important for maintaining a comfortable body temperature. Sleeping in a cool room may help you sleep better, but if your feet are cold, it can make it harder to fall asleep.

Is it Healthier To Wake Up Early?

Sleeping in on weekends may be enticing, but is it really better to wake up early?

It turns out that there are some benefits to getting up early. Studies have shown that people who wake up early are more productive and have better time management skills. They also tend to be more proactive and less likely to procrastinate.

On the other hand, people who sleep in on the weekends are more likely to have poorer sleep habits during the week. So if you’re looking to improve your sleep habits, it’s best to stick to a regular sleep schedule.

Should You Sleep With The Window Open?

Freshening up your bedroom with some fresh air can be tempting, but is it good for your health to sleep with the window open?

As it turns out, there are some benefits to sleeping with the window open. Sleeping in a cool room can help you sleep better. Fresh air can also help clear out any stuffiness in your room.

But if you have allergies, sleeping with the window open might not be the best idea.

Common Reasons People Have Trouble Sleeping

Falling asleep can be tough, especially if you’re dealing with stress or anxiety. But there are a few common reasons why people have trouble sleeping.

1. Drinking Caffeine Late in the Day

Caffeine is a stimulant that can make it hard to fall asleep. If you’re trying to sleep, it’s best to avoid caffeine after 2pm.

2. Eating a Large Meal Before Bed

Eating a big meal can make it hard to sleep because your body is working to digest the food. It’s best to eat a light evening meal or snack and avoid eating close to bedtime.

3. Stressing About Sleeping

Worrying about not being able to sleep can actually make it harder to fall asleep. If you’re feeling stressed about sleeping, try some relaxation techniques before bed to help you drift off to sleep.

4. Using Electronic Devices in Bed

The light from electronic screens can interfere with your body’s natural sleep cycle. If you use electronic devices in bed, try to limit your screen time and avoid using them close to bedtime. Many people like to wear blue-light glasses.

5. Having a Chaotic Sleep Schedule

If you don’t have a regular sleep schedule, it can be harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. It’s important to establish a regular sleep routine to help you get a good night’s sleep.

6. Not Sleeping When Your Baby or Kids Do

Having trouble sleeping when you have young kids can be common. If your kids are keeping you up at night, try to establish a regular sleep schedule for everyone in the family so you can get the rest you need. Try to take a nap when your child does.

There are a lot of different things that can affect your sleep. If you’re having trouble sleeping, try to identify any potential causes and address them. Sometimes, making small changes can make a big difference in your sleep quality.

How does sleep deprivation affect your memory?

Sleep deprivation has a significant impact on your ability to remember information. In one study, researchers found that sleep-deprived adults had significantly lower scores on a memory test than those who were well-rested.

The researchers believe that lack of sleep affects your memory by interfering with the way your brain processes and stores information.[*]

In another study, researchers found that sleep deprivation was linked to a decrease in the size of the hippocampus (in rats), a part of the brain that is important for memory.[*]

The bottom line is that if you want to keep your memory sharp, you need to make sure you get enough sleep.

Common Sleep Disorders

There are a several different sleep disorders that can negatively affect your sleep quality and quantity. Some of the most common sleep disorders include:

1. Insomnia – A condition characterized by difficulty falling or staying asleep
2. Sleep Apnea – A condition in which breathing is briefly and repeatedly interrupted during sleep
3. Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) – A condition characterized by an irresistible urge to move your legs, usually accompanied by unpleasant sensations
4. Narcolepsy – A condition characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden, brief episodes of sleep during the day
5. Snoring – A condition in which the flow of air through your nose and throat makes the tissues vibrate, resulting in a harsh sound
6. Sleep Paralysis – A condition characterized by being unable to move your body or speak when you first wake up or when falling asleep
7. Circadian Rhythm Disorders – A condition in which your sleep patterns are out of sync with your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle

If you think you may be suffering from a sleep disorder, it’s important to see a doctor or sleep specialist for diagnosis and treatment. Treatments for sleep disorders can range from simple lifestyle changes to medication or surgery.

Final Thoughts About Why Sleeping at Night Is Important

Poor sleep can lead to a variety of health issues including obesity, diabetes, and depression. This list gave you 7 benefits of sleeping at night that are worth considering before going to bed tonight. Think about what these benefits have in common or how they relate to your life experiences and well-being on the whole. You’ll likely find that getting a good night’s sleep is essential for your health and happiness. Thanks for reading!

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What are your best tips for a sleeping well?