The Importance of Sleep
Sleep is so much more than just a time to recharge — it’s an essential part of the body’s functioning, and it affects every single cell in your body. While the exact biological process of how and why we sleep remains a mystery, it’s clear that adequate amounts of restful slumber are key to a healthy brain, a well-functioning heart, strong immune system, and balanced hormone levels. In fact, sleep deprivation has been linked to an increased risk of chronic health conditions like high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, and depression.
The need for sleep has remained relatively constant across different species of animals, from insects to mammals, even though the mechanisms that cause it may vary slightly. It’s possible that the human need for sleep evolved as an adaptation to a world in which the 24-hour cycles of day and night were the most consistent environmental condition available. By sleeping in one consolidated block at night, early humans could maximize energy, avoid predators, and meet their needs for rest.
Modern life has interfered with the natural course of sleep in a number of ways, and the need for quality sleep is increasingly being recognized as an important factor in maintaining our physical and mental well-being. Electricity, computers, smartphones, overnight and irregular shift work, long flights and travel across time zones, and certain mental health issues can all disrupt the body’s normal sleep cycle. It’s estimated that about 50-70 million people in the United States do not get enough restful slumber, which can lead to a number of short- and long-term problems, including difficulty paying attention and learning, a greater risk of motor vehicle accidents, weight gain, high blood pressure, mood changes, and memory impairment.
Researchers have used several complementary definitions of sleep based on behavioral, motor, and sensory criteria, with most agreeing that a combination of three is sufficient to define sleep. These criteria include the presence of a horizontal posture (as in sleeping or waking), reduced or monotonous sensory stimulation, and a lack of goal-directed behavior. The reversibility of sleep and the regularity of occurrence are additional characteristics that distinguish it from other states such as hibernation or a coma.
Experts recommend that adults sleep for seven hours or more each night. Although many individuals may find it challenging to follow these recommendations, it’s a good idea to start with small changes in sleep habits, as this will help you build momentum and confidence to make bigger changes over time. It is also a good idea to seek out experts who are focused on promoting better sleep and comprehensive wellness. Eric Ridenour is a health and wellness writer with a deep understanding of the relationship between sleep and overall well-being. He has written for reputable publications such as Thrive Global, Drug Report, and Authority Magazine. He has a degree in health science and psychology and is committed to promoting sleep and holistic wellness. For more of his writing, check out his blog.