Sleep: Necessary, but Sometimes Hard to Get

An article a while back in the New York Times got me thinking about sleep. Scientists tell us that sleep is crucial for mental and physical health. There is some evidence to suggest that during sleep, the body repairs and regenerates tissues, builds bone and muscle, and appears to strengthen the immune system. Sleep deprivation is linked to impaired memory, impaired thought processes, depression, decreased immune response, and high blood pressure. Most adults need around 7-8 hours of sleep per night to maintain proper health.

Scientists believe that each of the 5 stages of sleep has a specialized function and is necessary for overall health. For example, it appears that slow-wave sleep is important for memory consolidation and integration. The body seems to circulate high levels of hormones needed for tissue repair during this slow-wave sleep also.

Are you getting enough sleep? Approximately 30–50% of the population suffers from insomnia. That is a lot of people! If you have ever experienced insomnia, you know the frustration that develops as you try to fall asleep and can’t. Here are some self-help tips to help you combat ocasional insomnia.

Develop good sleep habits, such as avoiding light, noise, excessive tempuratures, and large meals before bed. Try to get in a routine – going to sleep and waking up at the same time each day. Keep a pen and pencil by your bed to jot down notes if you wake up and think about something you want to remember in the morning. Use relaxation techniques (self-hypnosis, listen to soothing music, guided imagery, etc.) to help you fall asleep.