The end of the day is likely not the most exciting, but it is one of the most important parts of the day. Sleeping, a normal yet often overlooked function, is essential to all life forms on earth. Whether it be bees, elephants, bears, horses, or even fish, all life on Earth rests their heads in some shape or form.
The importance of sleep is pretty common knowledge, yet many of us humans seem to neglect it. According to the Sleep Foundation, the average time a person should rest is between 7-9 hours. However, their studies also show that “35.2% of all adults in the U.S.” sleep for less than that duration. While the data varies from state to state, the average is an alarming substantial number.
But why is sleep important? The most obvious answer is so you don’t feel tired the next day, but there are much more benefits than that. For example, sleep can help lead to improved cardiovascular health. The Sleep Foundation finds that when people sleep, their heart rate and blood pressure decrease, letting them rest and decreasing the risk of heart problems. Other benefits the Sleep Foundation concludes are a decreased chance of depression, a stronger immune system, and keeping a healthy weight.
So, everyone should reap the benefits of getting enough sleep, but does one exactly do that? You might say to simply go to bed at night, but it's not as easy as that. According to the Sleep Foundation, one should go to bed and get up at the same time due to our consistent, internal biological “clock.” They also say to make a quality sleep environment, usually a “dark, quiet, and cool bedroom.” Additionally, avoiding caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and electronic screens can also help you get better sleep.
Sleeping, although almost as natural as counting to three, is extremely important for our well-being. Do not underestimate its crucial benefits to our health. Thus, take it upon yourself to ensure you achieve as much as possible.
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