Though it may seem like we “turn off” when we go to sleep, parts of us are actually turning on. Learn more below, including details on a March 15th Lunch & Learn on Sleep.
Our brain and body cycle through two types of sleep, REM (rapid-eye movement) and non-REM sleep. Historically, it has been thought REM sleep to be the most important type of sleep, however we are learning that non-REM is just as imperative. Each stage of sleep serves a purpose, though unfortunately many of us are just not getting, or allowing ourselves, the time necessary for the requisite number of cycles or time spent in each stage.
Sleep, in general, helps to clear the waste products made by brain cells during information processing done while we are awake. This improves our brain’s “plasticity,” helping to maximize reception and processing of input. We see how important this is when we experience the foggy mind that comes as a result of poor or inadequate sleep. “Loss of sleep impairs your higher levels of reasoning, problem-solving and attention to detail” (newsinhealth.nih.gov).
We see how important sleep is for the body as well, as we’ve learned how adverse health risks rise when people do not get enough sleep. “Immunity is compromised, increasing the likelihood of illness and infection. Sleep also plays a role in metabolism: Even one night of missed sleep can create a prediabetic state in an otherwise healthy person” (hopkindsmedicine.org). Poor sleep affects our cardiovascular health, increasing our risk of or worsening hypertension, as well as our respiratory, emotional, and metabolic health.
Is this information new? Probably not. Would you like to address it? If so the Health and Wellness Center welcomes you to come in to chat about your sleep and where there may be room for improvement. There is no easy fix, as with weight loss and other work to improve your health and well-being, but your efforts to do so are worthwhile in the long run.
Start by celebrating World Sleep Day and attending the “I Love Sleep” lunch and learn on Friday, March 15th at 12pm in Blue Jay. To learn more or access the Skype link, visit the I Love Sleep Lunch and Learn page on NL TODAY.