The Long-Term Effects of Getting More Sleep
By Genevieve Cunningham
Getting enough sleep is one of the most important things that we can do for our health and well-being. We’re taught from the time that we’re young to go to bed on time so that we won’t get sick or be grumpy. But as we get older, a lack of sleep seems to become some kind of badge of honor. The truth is that a lack of sleep can be incredibly bad for our health. We need sleep, and when we finally get enough on a regular basis, we might find some amazing benefits come into our lives. If you’re not getting enough shut-eye, check out these healthy benefits that may come from getting to bed on time every day.
You’ll Be Able to Concentrate
A lack of sleep gets in the way of your concentration. When you’re sleep deprived, your mind just isn’t as sharp or clear as when you’re well rested. You’re likely to lose focus at any given moment or suffer from an incredibly short attention span. As you catch up on sleep and make quality sleep a regular habit in your life, these side effects are more likely to reverse, and so you may find your ability to concentrate higher than it’s been in a long time.
You’ll Probably Have Fewer Pains
Sleep is a time for your body to rest and rejuvenate itself. The more quality sleep you get, the more easily and efficiently it can heal, which may then alleviate aches and pains. It’s normal and natural to have a few more aches as we age, but it’s also normal to want to avoid as many as possible. Getting enough sleep is one of the best ways to protect your body and keep it feeling young and pain-free.
You May Very Well Live Longer
Multiple studies have linked chronic insomnia and a general lack of sleep with shorter life spans. The harsh truth is that we can’t live without sleep. We need it to heal and protect ourselves. On the opposite side of the spectrum, getting enough sleep has been linked to a longer life, even by as much as a few years. If you want to prolong your life, paying attention to your health is a big concern, and your sleeping habits are a big part of your overall wellness.
If you’re not making adequate sleep a priority in your life, it’s time to readjust your thinking and habits. Turn off the TV and electronics, turn off the light, and go to bed. When you think about the amazing benefits that adequate sleep can bring into your life, there really is no reason to stay up binging Netflix. Instead, get a little more sleep and a huge boost to health starting today and lasting a lifetime.