We spend a third of our lives sleeping, but not all sleep is equal. Adults should not only sleep 8 hours a day, but also have a restful and deep sleep.
Two things to consider are sleep duration and sleep quality. Even if a person gets the required 8 hours of sleep, the quality of sleep may be poor. Poor quality sleep can lead to tiredness and fatigue during the day. Fatigue can lead to frustration, memory loss, and easy mistakes.
According to research, “If you sleep for short periods of time, but with high-quality, deep, rejuvenating hormone-rich sleep, sleep cycles, you’ll wake up feeling rested. You want your body to get enough sleep, fall asleep quickly, sleep deeply and wake up feeling relaxed.’
Activities that usually disrupt sleep quality
- Use of technology – Many people will play on their phones before going to bed or going to sleep. This is a common practice practiced by millions of Nigerians and it affects the quality of sleep. Using a computer, tablet, phone, or watching TV before going to bed can lead to replenishment of serotonin and melatonin production. It reduces the quality of sleep.
- Eating – That’s right. Eating too close to bedtime can impair sleep quality. All this is due to the fact that the body focuses only on sleep, instead of sleeping and digesting food. Do not eat or snack three hours before bedtime.
- Other stimuli – There are other stimuli that disrupt circadian rhythms, activate the brain, and increase energy production. There are steps you can take to eliminate these triggers. Dim the lights or use low-brightness electric lamps before bed. Try to sleep before 10 pm.
- Working at night affects the quality of sleep because the brain is working instead of resting. Take time to relax before bed. Also, do not consume sugar or caffeine before going to bed. It is sure to keep one upbeat.