We spend a lot of time – and, in some cases, money – on attempts to feel better, to be healthier.  However, we often simultaneously neglect one of the simplest things we can do for greater health: sleep.  You may be amazed at how many ways regularly getting a good night’s sleep can affect your health.

• There appears to be a connection between lack of sleep and high blood pressure.
• Human growth hormone (HGH) is produced primarily during deep sleep, so if you don’t sleep long enough, your body makes far less of it than it otherwise would.  (It makes for a vicious cycle, too, as having too little HGH seems to make it more difficult for people to fall into a deep sleep.)  This is often referred to as the “anti-aging” hormone, as its decline appears to be directly related to typical signs of aging.  When it begins to decline, fat begins to build up, muscle mass starts declining, etc.
• A proper experience of the “light cycle” during each 24-hour period, resulting in normal production of melatonin, may protect against cancer.
• Lack of sleep increases inflammation.  Inflammation is connected to a number of diseases, including Rheumatoid Arthritis, asthma, digestive disorders, and diabetes.
• Memory and cognition are better when we obtain sufficient sleep.
• Sufficient sleep allows ample time for our bodies to regenerate, repairing damaged cells, etc.
• Insufficient sleep, by decreasing our alertness, response time, etc. – and simply by putting us at greater risk of falling asleep – increases our chances of dangerous accidents (with automobiles, machinery at work, etc.).
• We just plain feel better when we get enough sleep.  This is true of normal, everyday variations in mood, but it is also true of more severe manifestations.  Depression is less likely when we get enough sleep.

So…

• Set aside plenty of time for sleep.
• Keep non-restful activities out of the bedroom, and reduce light, noise, and clutter, to encourage restful associations with this space.
• Don’t consume caffeine shortly before bed.
• Do consider consuming protein foods not long before bedtime.
• If you’re having difficulty sleeping, find something non-stressful to think about that’s calming.  I like to mentally recite Scripture, because it helps keep my mind from wandering all over the place and usually helps me fall asleep more quickly.  (Plus, if I still don’t fall asleep, I don’t feel like the time is wasted!)

Do you have any tips or tricks for getting more and/or better sleep?  Please share them in the comments.