If you’re someone who pushes the boundaries with sleep and gets as little as possible to do as much work as possible, you may want to think again. Research reports that the US loses around $411 billion every year because workers are sleep deprived.
So, why does sleep matter so much? Here’s how sleep affects the brain and what can happen when we don’t get enough of it.
1. Sleep Affects Memory
When we go to sleep, our memory gets to work. The brain decides which memories are important and which can be forgotten. In many ways, this is how we learn. For instance, when babies are learning numbers, songs or colors, their memories solidify those facts so they learn as they sleep.
2. Natural Detox
We all know that the planet has more toxins than ever before. We pick them up while commuting to work, when traveling to other countries, and some they’re even in our water. However, sleep is a natural detoxer for our brains.
The lymphatic system comes to life at night, while we sleep, and removes toxins that could cause potential harm. Some of these toxins can lead to conditions such as Alzheimer’s in older age.
3. Increases Focus
The more sleep you get, the fewer hours you have to be at your desk working. The problem is if you don’t invest your time in sleep, the quality of your work will suffer. Getting six to eight hours (preferably the latter) of sleep each night will ensure your brain is well-rested.
This will increase your cognitive abilities and allow you to concentrate on getting the job done to the highest standard. Without the right amount of sleep, you could find it difficult to complete the simplest of tasks.
4. Boosts Your Immune System
Most people know that sleep boosts the immune system but what has that got to do with the brain. When you don’t get enough sleep, the energy that you’ve stored up will be reserved for your brain. That means all of your other systems will start to shut down, including your immune system.
You can boost the systems in your body by getting more hours of REM sleep. This often happens when people rest on their side at night. Take a look at the best mattress for side sleepers to increase your chances of a good REM cycle.
5. Get Creative
If you’re someone who likes to be creative, you’ll need to get a good amount of sleep. Sleep boosts creativity but sleep deprivation can kill it.
For example, someone who has the right amount of sleep could be quick to come up with a creative solution to a problem. Someone who is sleep deprived may not be able to see that solution until it is presented to them.
How Sleep Affects the Brain: Are You Getting Enough?
Perhaps reading through how sleep affects the brain has triggered some alarm bells for you. It’s never too late to catch up on your sleep. Take a look at some simple and effective ways to promote sleep.
Check back often to never miss our latest!