How Sleep Can Extend Your Life

If you're reading this, there's a good chance you aren't getting enough sleep. In fact, one in three people in the US aren't sleeping enough. Furthermore, not getting enough sleep can result in increased risk for a number of chronic illnesses.

It's no secret that people have access to more distractions than ever. Technology has opened the door to limitless possibilities, including the ability to work from home, watch cat videos before bed, and stress out about work no matter where you are.

Fortunately, you can start course correcting now, and get yourself on the track to a better night's rest as soon as tonight.

The Health Benefits of Sleeping

Sleep has a number of surprising health benefits. Sure, it makes you feel more rested, and less likely to drink a ton of coffee, but it can also do so much more. While its benefits are many, these are a handful of the more surprising and important ones:

• Sleep promotes healing: In a study conducted by the US Army, it was determined that those getting sufficient sleep can actually heal from physical injuries faster than those getting too little sleep. This study examined two sets of people with similar nutrition and backgrounds to ensure sleep was the primary factor. Surprise—it was!
• Lack of sleep = more to eat: There has been a positive correlation noted between people who sleep too little and eat too much. In short, if you're staying up late, you're likely snacking more. This can result in eating as much as an entire extra meal, which can quickly add up to a ton of unnecessary calories.

What makes this especially dangerous, is that you're likely not working out after eating that late night snack or meal. This means those calories have nowhere to go, especially if you're simply going to sleep shortly after.

• Sleep boosts learning capabilities: When you're well rested, your brain actually has a better time acquiring new memories. This means you can learn more quickly, and more effectively when you're rested. So, no more late nights cramming for a test; get some rest, and study in the morning.

This is only scratching the surface of the many perks that come with sleeping. In short, getting seven to eight hours of sleep can be great for your body.

Getting Better Sleep

While sleep has a whole plethora of benefits, getting the right amount of sleep, and making sure it's quality sleep can be difficult. Fortunately, there are some quick changes you can make in your life to help achieve this.

• Avoid your phone before bed: It's easy to check your phone before bed. Unfortunately, even a quick glance can deliver enough blue light to delay melatonin and proper sleep. Avoid checking your phone up to an hour before bed to make sure blue light doesn't disrupt your sleep.
• Avoid late naps: Naps can be tempting, especially if you're not getting enough sleep. If you absolutely have to nap, try to keep it short, and avoid napping too late in the day. A late nap can keep you up at night or result in a lower quality sleep that doesn't achieve complete REM cycles.
• Avoid alcohol at bedtime: While alcohol has a reputation for making people sleepy, it actually makes REM sleep more difficult. As tempting as a late night drink can be, avoid it if you intend to get a quality rest.

To help you get the sleep you need and deserve, Bestow has created a helpful visual on sleep, and how it can extend your life. There are even tips on how to get a better night's rest, so put down your coffee and fluff your pillow!