There is a good reason why lack of quality sleep affects you so adversely. If you remember surviving through a new born, sleeping next to a snorer, had jet lag or are going through menopause, you will be able to sympathise with anyone who suffers insomnia.
You may find yourself staring at the clock at 2am in the morning, wishing for sleep during stressful times, through noisy neighbours or experiencing times in your life that leave you feeling drained, empty and anxious. As you stare at the clock you know the next day is going to be a tough one to get through as lack of sleep will leave you feeling depleted, flat and exhausted.
Professor David Hillman, Chair of the Sleep Health Foundation, says that approx. 25% of Australians complain of difficulty with sleep. He also says that around half (1 in 10 people) have a disorder of sleep that may need medical attention. The remainder suffers from poor sleep habits, including failure to make enough time for sleep in their busy lives.
People who have poor sleeping habits are less productive, less safe when driving and suffer more mood swings. There is also suggestions that people with good sleeping habits live longer and have stronger immune systems.
Sleep Awareness Week starts on 29th September – 5th October. The website www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au has a comprehensive list of information sheets about all aspects of sleep and is a great resource if you face difficulties getting a good nights rest.
Sleep allows your mind and body to recover from the days events, stresses and wear and tear. When we sleep the body goes through 6 processes –
- Toxic waste management
- Healing/Repair/Immune
- Growth
- Anti stress and emotional consolidation
- Memory consolidation
- Learning
The good news is that there are many things you can do to get a better nights sleep. Most importantly make proper rest and recovery time and sleep a priority. Without taking time out to rest, recover and having adequate sleep, judgment, mood, and ability to learn and retain information are weakened. Being able to give yourself permission to rest, giving your body time to relax and recover, and achieving restful sleep begins with listening to when you need time out just to be and honour your feelings. Keeping a consistent sleep and rest routine and creating a home and bedroom environment that promotes relaxation is the beginning of an effective self-care and wellbeing practice and follow some proven tips from the sleep health foundation website above.
Sweet dreams all