Sleep is a vital yet often overlooked element of our lives. Sleep can be beneficial to our general health because, even when we are sleeping, our bodies continue working and performing critical processes to sustain cognitive and physical health. When you have a good night’s sleep, you may notice an improvement in your health if you have an infection, or your mind may clear up after a stressful day (1). While you may not remember what happens when you are in a dream or deep sleep, all of your internal organs are working as hard as they do during the day. When you don’t get enough sleep or keep waking up in the middle of the night, it disrupts the repair and mending process, which not only impacts your energy levels the next day but also weakens your immunity.

“Getting enough sleep is essential for maintaining optimal health and well-being. It improves one’s brain performance, mood, and health. Everyone who believes in discipline in life and maintains a good routine activity tends to have sound sleep. It is important to establish healthy sleep habits, known as sleep hygiene,” says Dr. Sandeep Nayar, Principal Director and HOD, Pulmonology, BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital. Dr. Nayar discusses seven beneficial sleep habits:

Consistency and Moderation Are Keys to Quality Sleep

A person who sleeps well usually goes to bed at the same time every night and wakes up around the same time every day, including weekends (2). Sleeping hours should be optimal – neither too few nor too much. When you sleep too much or at different times on weekends, your sleep routine is disrupted, which might damage your sleep quality.

Creating the Perfect Sleep Environment for Quality Rest

A bedroom that is quiet, dark, restful, and at a reasonable temperature is essential. Avoid using electrical gadgets in your bedroom, such as televisions, computers, and smartphones. One should be able to fall asleep within 10 to 20 minutes of getting into bed. Make sure your bed is comfy, or you could wake up with neck or back pain.

Healthy Evening Habits for a Restful Sleep

People who sleep soundly avoid high-calorie dinners, alcohol, smoking, and caffeine consumption at night. Instead of relaxing, all of these activities might cause your body and mind to work overtime, even throughout the night, resulting in poor sleep quality.

Managing Stress and Promoting Relaxation for Better Sleep

Stress can build up throughout the day and, if not released, can wreak havoc on your psyche. If you are not deeply relaxed, you may keep waking up throughout the night and will be unable to experience deep sleep. It is recommended to decompress by going for a short stroll after dinner or reading a book (3).

Meditation for Improved Sleep

Many people who struggle with sleep disorders have intense and nonstop thoughts at bedtime. Meditation is a helpful method for improving sleep. Meditation, as a relaxation practice, may help alleviate insomnia and sleep problems by boosting overall tranquility.

Skipping Breakfast Affects Sleep and Mood

We frequently make the mistake of skipping breakfast. We should always eat a healthy breakfast because neglecting it might lead to a variety of health issues. According to research, persons who skip breakfast take longer to fall asleep and have higher levels of despair (4).

Delicate Balance of Daytime Naps and Nighttime Rest

If you must sleep during the day, take a brief (15-20 minute) nap at your break time. Last but not least, one must grasp the value of sleep in rejuvenating our bodies; nevertheless, more sleep isn’t always better. If you’re sleeping more than nine hours a night and yet don’t feel refreshed, there could be a medical problem.