It may be hard to believe, but we spend almost a third of our lives sleeping! However, sleep is essential for good health, in fact it is just as important as a healthy diet, physical fitness and is vital for a high quality of life. Sleeping allows our bodies the chance to recharge from physical and mental exertion.
Our quality of health and sleep share a close relationship. Poor sleep patterns can increase physical ailments, while health issues can make it hard for quality sleep. In fact, disturbance in the nightly sleep pattern can provide the first insight into a larger problem. Many common mental health issues such as depression and anxiety can lead to sleep problems.
We have all been told at one time or another to get out of bed and pull ourselves together, however, lethargy and disturbed sleeping patterns may be a part of a greater mental issue or a side effect of some form of medication. It is very important to examine sleep disorders as part of mental health treatment as many times they may be overlooked.
Many find it difficult to get a decent sleep when working shift-based jobs or those who work in safety-critical industries, however, it is absolutely essential to try and focus on getting the right amount of sleep to remain safe and productive while at work.
Just about everyone can get major health benefits by just improving their sleep patterns. For many of us that is a simple matter of making a small lifestyle change or a small adjustment in life. Over one-third of the world’s population suffers from insomnia or just a lack of quality sleep. A lack of sleep can affect many aspects of our daily lives and routines including work performance and relationships.
There are some very simple techniques that can help you start getting the best sleep ever. If these do not seem to help with your quality of sleep, you may want to consult with a physician as this may be a sign of something more serious.
If you are having continuing sleep problems, there may be another issue at root which your GP may be able to diagnose. When sleep disorders and mental health issues are treated and addressed at the same time, it helps for a quicker recovery time.
The following are four considerations in which you can help create better health for yourself
Health
Research has shown that poor sleep can create poor health conditions and vice versa. In addition such mental health issues such as depression and anxiety can lead to further sleep issues. It is essential that all health concerns are addressed by a qualified physician as well as any concerns that may be keeping you at night.
Environment
The environment in which you sleep is very important, meaning your bedroom and bed must help convey a restful image. This is why one should not watch television, eat or play games while in bed. In addition, the noise and light levels as well as temperature can affect the quality of sleep. If you are having difficulty sleeping one may want to begin by researching the quality of your sleeping environment and investing in a new Purple mattress.
Attitude
If you are relaxed and free of stress, it is rather easy to fall asleep at night. However, all of us have had those nights where are worried and concerned and simply can not fall asleep. In the hour or so before you go to bed, try to wind down and let all of your worries of the day go. While we understand this is easier said than done, there are several relaxation techniques that can help through the process. If all else fails and the time to sleep is getting closer, make a glass of warm milk and try again. While you may be tempted to sit down and watch TV r get online this will actually make it harder to fall asleep.
Lifestyle
What you eat and drink will greatly affect how you sleep. Such aspects such as caffeine can make it much harder to fall asleep while a heavy sugary snack can make it quite difficult to get comfortable in bed. While alcohol seems as a good choice to fall asleep quickly, it will actually reduce the quality of sleep. Exercising early in the day is a great way to aid in a quality sleep, but sleep to late will release adrenaline which will keep you awake.
