Why do we sleep?
Why do we sleep? We know it's good for us and we also know we probably don't get enough of it with the demands of modern life. But what is happening to our brain and our body when we sleep? And what are the consequences if we don't get enough high-quality sleep?
Let’s start with some of the fascinating positive aspects of sleep
· Problem solving – all the data, interactions and challenges of the day are filed away into the brain, and it is when we sleep that our brain goes through the process of sorting out what is important and what isn’t and helping us to come up with solutions. Pretty impressive hey.
· Neuroplasticity – this essentially refers to the ability of our brains to learn something new or strengthen neural pathways that are responsible for our habits. If we are taking in new knowledge throughout the day or trying to develop a healthy new habit, maybe around exercise and nutrition, it is when we sleep that these new learnings and strengthened neural pathways are formed.
· Cell growth & repair – The body and brain goes through a restoration process, including muscle repair, which is even more important for those who are exercising regularly.
· Cleaning out waste - Adenosine and metabolites build up in our brain throughout the day as we use energy. It is only through sleep that we clear out the build-up so we can wake up feeling fresh the next day. If we wake up groggy and tired it usually because we haven’t had enough good quality sleep and there is residual adenosine in the brain.
All the above improves brain function.
Whilst when we don’t get enough high-quality sleep (usually 6 hours of less) this impacts our,
· Memory – Linked with problem solving, deep sleep helps us to cement memories and experiences into our brain.
· Mood – this one speaks for itself and shows the link between sleep quality and our mental health.
· Energy - no one feels like exercising let alone working when they are sleep deprived.
· Diet - Leptin and Ghrelin are two key hormones responsible for regulating our hunger / fullness and when we are sleep deprived these hormones are out of sync. The lack of energy will also make us more likely to crave sugar &
· Long term health- Poor sleep will increase your risk of developing any of the major diseases in the western world.
Whilst when we don’t get enough high-quality sleep (usually 6 hours of less) this impacts our,
· Memory – Linked with problem solving, deep sleep helps us to cement memories and experiences into our brain.
· Mood – this one speaks for itself and shows the link between sleep quality and our mental health.
· Energy - no one feels like exercising let alone working when they are sleep deprived.
· Diet - Leptin and Ghrelin are two key hormones responsible for regulating our hunger / fullness and when we are sleep deprived these hormones are out of sync. The lack of energy will also make us more likely to crave sugar &
· Long term health- Poor sleep will increase your risk of developing any of the major diseases in the western world.
Next steps to significantly improve your sleep?
Take our free 7 day sleep challenge. Learn what new habits to integrate into your day time and evening routines to ensure you’re sleeping sound each night.
If you like to learn more you can watch the full video recorded by Lift Your Wellbeing Founder and Health Coach, Kevin McAlister
