World Sleep Day 2020: Know the Importance of Sleeping Well

According to lifestyle coach Luke Coutinho, "Sleep is everything. It is natural for our cells and life. No amount of drugs, caffeine or technology can ever replace what natural sleep and rest can do for our body and mind. We must sleep to heal the mind and body."

Every year World Sleep Day is observed on March 13. The main aim of celebrating this day is to raise awareness about the significance of healthy sleep and why sleeping well is essential for all of us. Management of sleep disorders is an integral part of World Sleep Day. The day is internationally recognised, and it is formed and organised by the World Sleep Society. The health professionals, patients and researchers come together and identify sleep and can impact our overall health.

World Sleep Day: Know the Importance of Sleeping Well

1. Not getting proper sleep for even one day puts you in sleep debt

Coutinho says, if a person doesn't get good quality sleep for even one day, you will be at sleep debt. How much ever you sleep during the day it cannot be sufficient for quality sleep at night. Being in sleep debt could make you feel tired and irritable all day.

2. Sleep well for excellent performance

On days you don't get proper sleep, the next day you don't feel fresh and energetic, and this directly shows on your work performance.

3. Sleep helps in healing

Coutinho says that sleeping helps in healing and recovery, and that happens while you're sleeping. You overload your body by not sleeping well or skipping sleep. Sleep gives rest to your brain so that it functions the next day effectively. In the same way, it lays down your memory, assists rejuvenation of cells and also prepares your body mentally and physically for the next day. Your body performance will diminish, and you may also put you at risk of diseases.

4. Improper sleep may lead to unnecessary weight gain

Every time that you don't get proper sleep, the next day, your body will look for energy sources. It increases your cravings and forces you to hog on sugary, junk and sugar-loaded energy drinks. This will lead to unnecessary weight gain.

5. Insufficient sleep leads to stress and sleep disorders

Inadequate sleep can lead to weight gain and other mental health problems like anxiety, depression and stress. Severe sleep disorders could also be linked to hypertension, irregular heartbeat, weak immunity, and increase in stress hormone levels.