With a busy schedule it is often very easy to forget about even the most basic method of self-care, sleep. Staying up late to meet deadlines, getting sucked into a new series on Netflix or just getting into a bad evening routine; missing out on much needed sleep can have detrimental effects on your mental and physical health.

The recommended amount of sleep for a healthy adult is at least seven hours, with most people not needing any more than eight hours in bed to be well rested. Keeping a routine can be extremely beneficial, going to bed and getting up at the same time every day, yes, this includes weekends. Being consistent reinforces your body’s sleep-wake cycle and makes Monday mornings a lot less painful.

5 Reasons Why Getting Enough Sleep Is Important

1) Boosts Immune Function
Studies have shown that even a small loss of sleep can reduce your immune functions. People who sleep less than 7 hrs a night are nearly 3 times more likely to develop a cold than those who sleep 8 hrs or more.

2) Stay At A Healthy Weight
lack of sleep has been shown to disrupt the daily fluctuations in appetite hormones. As a result, when you are sleep deprived you are prone to having a bigger appetite and eating more calories.
A poor night’s sleep can also triggers markers of inflammation in your body and cell damage.

3) Lower Your Risk Of Heart Disease
Studies have shown that people who do not get enough sleep are far more likely to experience heart issues than those individuals who get between 7 and 8 hours of sleep per night.

4) Improved Concentration & Bain Activity
A good night of sleep can maximize concentration, problem solving skills and productivity, while poor sleep has been shown to impair brain function. A short night of sleep can negatively impact some aspects of your brain function to the same degree as alcohol intoxication.

5) Reduce Stress and Improve Your Mood
Sleep and mood are closely connected; poor or inadequate sleep can cause irritability and stress, while healthy sleep can enhance well-being. During a study subjects who were limited to only 4.5 hours of sleep a night for one week reported feeling more stressed, angry, sad, and mentally exhausted.

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Getting enough sleep isn’t only about total hours of sleep. It’s also important to get good-quality sleep on a regular schedule so you feel rested when you wake up.
If you often have trouble sleeping — or if you often still feel tired after sleeping — talk with your doctor.