World Sleep Day: 10 health benefits of sleep

One of the most mesmerising feelings is to hit your bed and sleep off immediately! A good night ZZZs gives your body the time to rejuvenate and prep up with positive energy for the coming day. Lack of sleep can make you feel grumpy the next day, and ruin your morning mood, making you feel uneasy. The benefits of getting adequate sleep go far and beyond enhancing your productivity to balancing your blood sugar levels. Our generation glorifies the hustling lifestyle and doesn’t mind discounting the night’s sleep to overwork in the name of productivity. Little do we realize the harm it is doing to our bodies in the longer run.

Health Shots got in touch with Dr. Jyoti Kapoor, Senior Psychiatrist and Founder, Manasthali, to understand the 10 benefits of sleep.

10 benefits of getting enough sleep!

Sleep deprivation is generally linked to lifestyle and other ailments and can hamper the functioning of the body and mind over time. Here are 10 positive things that you invite into your life when you sleep well.

1. Enhanced mood

As per our expert, “Sleep helps regulate our emotions and reduce stress, so when we get ample sleep, we tend to feel more positive and happy.” A well-rested mind and body naturally exude happy vibes.

2. Increased productivity

A good night’s sleep can improve focus and concentration, leading to increased productivity and efficiency throughout the day.

3. Better memory

Sleep plays a critical role in consolidating memories, so getting enough rest amps up our ability to retain more information and have a sharper memory.

4. Reduced inflammation

“Lack of sleep can cause inflammation in the body, which can lead to a variety of health problems. Good sleep can reduce inflammation and promote overall health and well-being,” says the expert.

5. Stronger immune system

When we dose off for quality sleep, our bodies produce immune cells that help fight off infections and diseases, so getting enough rest can boost our immune system.

6. Lower risk of chronic diseases

Poor sleep has been linked to an increased risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Getting enough rest can help reduce the risk. As aforementioned, a well-slept person has less oxidative stress released in the body and thus has a better immune system.

7. Improved athletic performance

Sleep is essential for muscle recovery and repair, so getting a good night’s sleep can improve athletic performance and reduce the risk of injury.

Also read: Combining milk and cashew can give you a good night’s sleep, suggests Rujuta Diwekar

8. Better skin

When we sleep, our body produces collagen, which is essential for healthy skin and hair. Good sleep can help reduce wrinkles, improve skin tone, and promote overall skin health.

9. Reduced stress levels

Lack of sleep can lead to increased levels of stress, while good sleep helps reduce stress and promote relaxation. A calm and composed mind thinks logically and is more equipped to make rational decisions. If you’re a person who is accustomed to a busy lifestyle, here’s how to improve your sleep routine.

10. Improved overall health

Getting enough rest is essential for overall health and well-being. When we sleep well, we are more likely to feel energized, focussed, and healthy throughout the day. Hence, the positives of getting enough sleep every single night are dime a dozen. So, next time you think of pulling off an all-nighter, think twice and snooze instead.