Getting enough good, quality sleep is essential to physical health and emotional well-being, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Quality sleep is uninterrupted, refreshing sleep. It is determined by how many hours you sleep and how well you sleep. The amount of quality sleep needed changes throughout a person’s life, but it is recommended that adults get at least seven hours of sleep daily.
Signs of poor sleep include having trouble falling asleep, repeatedly waking up during the night and feeling tired during the day.
These habits can improve sleep:
• Going to bed and getting up at the same times every day;
• Keeping the bedroom quiet and cool;
• Turning off electronic devices at least 30 minutes before bedtime;
• Avoiding large meals and alcohol before bedtime;
• Not consuming caffeine in the afternoon or evening; and
• Exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy diet.
Getting enough quality sleep can help:
• Improve immunity to sickness;
• Maintain a healthy weight;
• Reduce stress and improve your mood;
• Improve heart health and metabolism;
• Lower the risk of chronic conditions such as Type 2 diabetes and heart disease; and
• Improve attention span and memory.
The CDC’s website has more information.
