Why is sleep so important?

Sleep is vital for taking good care of both your physical and mental health. It’s important to remember that the activities you engage in throughout the day can heavily influence how well you rest each night.

When we have optimal rest and interrupted sleep, our bodies can repair themselves, and our brains can consolidate memories and process information. If you’re suffering from a lack of sleep, read on for possible factors and tips on how to relax your mind and body to get the best out of each day.

Why am I so tired?

There are many reasons why someone might feel tired, but some common causes include:

1. Insufficient sleep: If you’re not getting enough rest each night, you may feel tired and groggy during the day. The Sleep Health Foundation recommends that adults get between 7 and 9 hours of sleep each night.

2. Stress and anxiety: Chronic stress and anxiety can be draining, leaving you feeling tired, irritable and run down.

3. Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as anaemia, hypothyroidism, or diabetes, may cause fatigue.

4. Lifestyle factors: Poor diet, lack of exercise, and exposure to environmental toxins can make you feel tired.

5. Sleep disorders: Conditions such as insomnia, sleep apnoea, and restless leg syndrome can make it difficult to get a good night’s sleep, leading to fatigue during the day.

6. Depression: Feelings of fatigue and a loss of interest in activities, which can make it difficult to get through the day.

If you feel more tired than usual, it’s important to talk to your doctor about possible causes and treatment options. A healthcare professional will ask about your sleeping habits, medications, and medical history.

Regular sleep for good health

One of the most important functions of sleep is the regulation of the body’s circadian rhythms, which are the natural cycles of physiological activity that occur over a 24-hour period. These rhythms are closely tied to the sleep-wake cycle, and disruptions to this cycle can lead to various health problems.

Having a regular sleeping schedule is an important part of staying healthy and being your best self. Here are a few tips to help you set up a good routine that will make sure you get the restful sleep that you need:

  • Sleep schedule: Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day helps regulate your underlying biological clock and makes it easier to fall asleep and wake up.
  • Bedtime routine: Create a bedtime routine that helps you relax and unwind. This can include activities such as reading, taking a warm bath, or listening to calming music.
  • Limit screen time: It is recommended that you turn off all electronic screens at least an hour before going to bed, as the blue light given off by these devices can interfere with your body’s natural sleep signals.
  • Comfortable sleep environment: Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet so it’s easier to fall asleep. A comfortable mattress and pillow are also important. Consider using earplugs or a white noise machine to block out other sounds in the house.
  • Harmful habits: Caffeine, nicotine, heavy meals and alcohol should be avoided, especially in the evening. Consuming these substances will interfere with your ability to feel calm and relaxed, which is essential for effective meditation.
  • Manage stress levels: When you feel stressed out, it becomes difficult to unwind. A great way to manage this is with relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.

Making time for adequate and consistent rest is critical to maintaining good physical, psychological and emotional health.

Though it is essential for our bodies to get the necessary rest it needs to function, the quality and type of sleep we get are just as crucial for our overall wellbeing.

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