Why Sleep Should Be A Part Of Your New Year Resolution 2024?

With 2024 right around the corner, we all have a set of resolutions in mind. From trying to lose weight to self-care, the list is long. But one thing that everyone must include is sleep! Sounds simple, doesn’t it?

Now you are probably wondering, ‘Well, I sleep just fine.’ But do you? Really? The number of adults who aren’t getting the right amount of sleep has changed in the last seven years.

A good night’s rest is imperative for a healthy you. It affects your weight, blood pressure, blood sugar, etc. The simple act of enjoying a proper slumber every night can be a game-changer and aid your overall well-being.

In this article, we will walk you through the importance of sleep and help you understand why it must top your New Year’s resolution list. Let’s unpack!

How Much Sleep Do You Need?

Knowing the amount of sleep you need every night is the first step. For most healthy adults over the age of 18, you need about 7 or more hours of sleep every night.

Whereas babies, young children, and teens require more than seven. In addition to this, it is important to ensure that you enjoy uninterrupted sleep where the quality matches the quantity.

How Sleep Patterns in India Changed Post-Pandemic?

The era of the pandemic not only cost lives but also led to long-term health problems in individuals. However, one issue that was consistently reported worldwide was sleep. According to a survey, it was seen that 52% of Indians, noticed a change in their sleep pattern post-pandemic, along with other sleep-related issues such as sleep apnea and sleepwalking.

It was also seen that one in two Indians surveyed were getting less than six hours of uninterrupted sleep and one in four Indias were getting less than four hours.

Infact, if we closely look, our sleep habits have also changed since the pandemic. Irrespective of the illness, people are still struggling to enjoy sound sleep even today.

So, now is the time to step back and understand your sleep pattern. Are you getting at least 7 hours of quality sleep, devoid of any interruptions, even the nightly bathroom breaks? Because sleep is crucial to your health.

Why Is It Important To Prioritize Sleep?

Does it matter if you trim an hour or so from your sleep? Yes, it does. What most of us fail to recognize is sleep is necessary for a myriad of bodily functions. It is when you sleep that your body heals and repairs itself. Let’s understand.

Can Curb Your Productivity

Have you ever woken up groggy, unable to check anything off your to-do list? Poor sleep quality can do that. It can completely kill your productivity and concentration. This is because inadequate sleep adversely impacts your cognitive abilities, especially your attention span, emotional capacity, performance, and more.

Negatively Impacts Your Health

With 2024 knocking on our doors, we all aspire to be healthy and fit this upcoming year. But it is impossible to do so without proper sleep. This is because poor sleep can lead to a variety of health issues, which include type 2 diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, heart disease, and more. Infact, it can also negatively impact mental health, aggravating issues like anxiety and depression.

Weakens The Immune System

Poor sleep suppresses the immune system and you become more susceptible to infections or illnesses. This is because it affects the cytokine production, which manages the inflammation of the body.

Can Lead To Heart Problems

When your body doesn’t get enough sleep, it can increase sympathetic nervous system activity, which is not good for the heart. Poor sleep is associated with inflammation, increased heart rate, and high blood pressure.

Can Be Bad For Your Skin

The several serums and moisturizers won’t be of any help if you aren’t getting proper shut-eye. When you consistently get poor sleep, it can cause a wide range of skin issues, such as wrinkles, sagging of the skin, dark circles, and more.

It Can Cause Hormonal Imbalance

When you don’t get enough sleep, it can upset the hormonal balance in the body. Shorter sleep duration is associated with low leptin levels. This demands an extra calorie intake, which can lead to potential weight gain. Infact, the levels of cortisol, ghrelin, dopamine, melatonin, thyroid, and even sex hormones become imbalanced, which can have negative effects on your glucose metabolism, overall mood, and more.

Mood Swings

Feeling irritable, frustrated, or just angry for no reason are all mood disturbances that occur when you don’t get proper sleep. And when this continues, your stress levels may increase and you are at a higher risk of developing anxiety and depression.

5 Tips To Get Better Sleep

Now you know what happens when you don’t get enough sleep and why sleep should be a part of your New Year’s resolutions. But don’t worry. With the below-mentioned tips, you will be able to enjoy a luxurious sleep in no time!

1. Develop A Sleep Schedule

A sleep schedule is nothing but going to bed and waking up at a set time, even on weekends or holidays. This takes care of your internal clock or circadian rhythm and makes it easier for you to enjoy a good night’s rest. Infact, it also helps you deal with daily stress or minor inconveniences that crop up in your day-to-day lives.

2. Have A Relaxing Bedtime Routine

A calming pre-sleep ritual, such as reading a book, taking a warm bath, or practicing relaxation techniques, signals your body that it's time to wind down. This makes it easier for you to fall asleep as you are more relaxed and stress-free.

3. Make Sure You Optimize Your Sleep Environment

Too much light or heat can disrupt your body's internal clock. So, make sure your bedroom is conducive to sleep by keeping it dark, quiet, and cool. The ideal temperature to sleep should be between 15.6 and 19.4°C.

Lastly, invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows that provide proper support. For instance, the SmartGrid technology from The Sleep Company's mattresses and pillows offers the right firmness that keeps you comfortable throughout the night.

4. No Caffeine Late In The Day

Sometimes, long deadlines may call for a cup of coffee. But having it late in the evening can impact your health. In a study, it was seen that consuming caffeine six hours before you sleep could lead to sleep disturbances. This is because caffeine can stay in your system for up to 10 hours.

5. Limit Naps

If you need to nap during the day, always keep it short, around 20-30 minutes. And, avoid napping too close to bedtime, as it may interfere with nighttime sleep.

Note: If you consistently struggle with sleep despite trying these tips, consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying sleep disorders or issues.

Wrapping Up

While sleep is critical and plays a major role in our overall well-being, it is also the most ignored.

But remember, proper sleep heals and repairs your body, preparing for another day. When you enjoy seven hours of sound sleep every night, you are preventing excess weight gain, heart problems, etc. This is why it must be a part of your resolutions for 2024.

One thing that's crucial to sleep is your mattress. Even after you follow all the tips, if your mattress is uncomfortable, sleep eludes you. So, investing in one, such as the SmartGrid Mattress from The Sleep Company can do wonders. It offers you cloud-like comfort, breathability, pressure point relief, and more for the best sleep experience of your life. Your well-being begins with quality sleep!