There are countless studies proving the negative impact too little sleep can have on your health and wellbeing. Undoubtedly, you have probably noticed some of the short-term effects of too little sleep yourself–be it lack of clarity, inability to focus, and even irritability. However, many people continue to try and slip by without getting proper rest, and that leads to long-term issues as well that can be harder to recognize.
Additionally, many people find that they are clocking in the hours and think they are getting enough sleep when, in reality, the poor quality of their sleep is leading to negative side effects that they may not be able to identify. The trick is figuring out whether or not you are actually getting enough deep, good quality sleep for your body’s health.
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Are You Getting Enough Sleep?
Obviously, we all have sleepless nights some times. Occasionally, everyone is bound to have something so exciting, or perhaps a little anxious, that makes them toss and turn or struggle to shut their eyes.
Still, poor sleep is no longer the exception across the country. Rather, it seems more and more like getting a good night’s sleep is a happy surprise, but one that comes far too infrequently. Ask yourself: How many days last month did you wake up feeling well-rested? For most of us, feeling a little tired in the morning and perhaps even crashing mid-afternoon has become the norm. Now, good sleep seems illusive. Something maybe you think you can only achieve on vacation due to the stresses of daily life, but it shouldn’t be that way.
For most of us, it’s well-known fact that we aren’t sleeping enough or sleeping well enough. But for some, they focus on how many hours they get and call it good, even if they did wake up multiple times throughout the night. If you find yourself unsure of whether or not your body is getting the rest it needs and deserves, think about the following symptoms.
The Symptoms of Poor Sleep
Those who consistently get poor sleep–meaning not enough sleep and/or not enough good, deep sleep–will eventually notice the onset of these symptoms.
- Poor Focus and Clarity: Ever drawn a blank as your mind struggled to piece together an answer, idea, or project? Lack of good rest likely played a role. Just like your body, when your mind doesn’t rest, it gets tired and moves more slowly and works less efficiently.
- Increased Stress and Anxiety: That’s right, the very things that often cause poor sleep can be further worsened by not getting enough quality sleep. If you find stress and anxiety building, hit the hay and see how you feel after a good night’s rest. You’re sure to have better clarity of mind and a greater sense of stability.
- Irritability and Mood Changes: If you don’t like being spoken to before you have your morning cup of coffee, you probably aren’t sleep well enough. Lack of good sleep can lead to irritability and sudden mood changes throughout the day, which can leave you feeling drained and emotional.
What’s tricky about sleep, or the lack thereof, is that some symptoms are harder to notice. Or, at least, it’s harder to connect them to poor sleep. Things like packing on the pounds, for instance, are often tied to poor sleep quality and increased stress levels. In fact, weight gain is a major risk when you are feeling stressed out and not allowing your body to get enough deep rest each night. Likewise, you’ll have an increased risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and even certain cancers–but those are things you can’t see.
So, ask yourself: Are you getting enough sleep?
Everyone should strive for 8-10 hours or more each night of solid, sound sleep. No tossing and turning. No waking up, getting up, or wishing you could drift back into your dreams. When you are sleeping well, you are getting a solid block of deep rest in which your body is able to carry out its all-important repair processes and “system cleanings” that keep you healthy and well.
How to Sleep Better
There are several practices and habits you can adopt to help you relax and maximize your hours of sleep, check out our blog post about natural remedies on How To Unwind and Get a Better Night’s Sleep.
Studies back it: Getting better sleep can be as easy as cuddling into a weighted blanket. That’s because these blankets utilize the same Deep Pressure Stimulation (DPS) system used for decades as a means of relaxing patients with everything from restless leg syndrome to autism. Now, the results are beginning to be revealed on how DTP and weighted blankets can be used to help everyone sleep better.
The pressure of a weight blanket swaddles you up into cozy warmth, leading to the release of serotonin within your brain. Serotonin is a chemical that plays a key role in relaxation, and the way a weighted blanket encourages its production leads to a deep sense of worry-free rejuvenation. Before you know it, you’ll be drifting off to the best night’s sleep of your life!
Is It Better to Get Some Sleep Rather Than None at All?
Is It Better to Get Some Sleep Rather Than None at All?When it comes to sleep, even a few precious hours can prove beneficial. Studies suggest that even two hours of sleep benefits can have a positive impact on cognitive function, mood, and overall well-being. While it may not be ideal, getting some sleep is certainly better than depriving oneself of rest entirely. Prioritizing quality sleep, however limited, can make a significant difference in one’s ability to function and handle daily challenges.
Unlock Better Sleep
The design of a weighted blanket utilizes proven technology, which evenly distributes cozy weight across your entire body, leading to the release of serotonin within your brain. Serotonin is a chemical that your body naturally emits during times of rest and relaxation, and the triggered release of it will help you relax at night and fall to sleep faster while ultimately getting higher quality, more restful sleep.
She tried every sleep system and trick to conquer her insomnia for good.
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