JOIN USWhy a good night's sleep is important Many of us would fondly recall that one ad
Many of us would fondly recall that one advice which our parents routinely handed out to us as kids--‘time se so jaya karo’. At that time, playing perhaps took precedence over sleeping, but the very well meant advice acquires greater significance in the rushed, stressful times we live in today.
Numerous surveys and research conducted in recent times say that more people are sleeping less than six hours and an equally large number suffer from insomnia. This is alarming because a good night’s sleep is as essential to our well being, mental and physical health as breathing and drinking water. It is essential for a healthy body and ensures a fresh and active day in our offices and daily lives. Sleep loss may result in irritability, impatience, inability to concentrate, and moodiness. Too little sleep can also leave you too tired to do the things you like to do.
But, another more important matter is that a sound sleep is very critical to maintaining brain health also. Brain, which is the most important part of our body is responsible for the proper function of other organs too. Hence, its health is of utmost importance. Because of changing times and lifestyle disorder, youngsters tend to compromise on their sleep. Television, chatting on phone, internet – all these have become their priority. One can afford to scrimp on sleep the whole night, but cannot miss on his/her ‘alone time’ with their phones and internet, seems to be the mantra these days! All these result in a lazy day either in school or at work.
Dr Satnam Singh Chhabra, senior Neuro and Spine surgeon, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, shares the consequences of lack of sleep. “The hormones which are released at night while sleeping are regulated by the circadian cycle. And if one is not sleeping properly, this cycle is disturbed. So, a sound sleep is important for both mental and physical health of a person. And improper sleeping pattern also affects other organs of the body.”
“Normally insomnia is on account of varying reasons, the common being that people are either staying up late and working or that they are suffering from some ailment which affects their sleep pattern. It is all due to the cultural changes that are affecting their lifestyles. Improper sleep results in doziness, poor concentration, lack of interest and other hormonal disbalance,” adds Dr Satnam.
According to the doctor, one should avoid caffeine and other brain stimulants like cigarettes, carbonated drinks and other addictive products. A warm glass of milk is what is recommended for a soothing effect along with a comfortable and soft pillow for a good sleep.