Introduction to Sleeping Well
One thing that each and every one of us will have to do for our entire lives is sleep. It is believed that an average of 27 years of our lives will be spent sleeping.
Sleep is something that most of us take for granted. The only time sleep usually crosses our minds is when we have gone without it for a time, or when we are planning to do it for a longer period than normal.
Whether we think about it or not, there will always be some controversy concerning sleep. All aspects of sleep are subject to debate, including how much we need, why we sleep, what are the best sleep conditions, and why we do not sleep when we can't.
Everyone agrees that since we spend so much time sleeping, it is a necessary activity. It is also commonly believed that sleep is necessary to rest our bodies and our minds.
It was once believed that when people were asleep, the body and mind were in a state of very little activity. More recent studies, however, were conducted on the activity of the brain during sleep. These studies uncovered the fact that the brain is very active during sleep and carries out various important functions. This brain activity is what we now know as REM, or Rapid Eye Movement sleep.
Sleep is the body's method for recharging at the end of a busy day. There are some who believe that there are ways to train ourselves to function without sleep, making it an unnecessary waste of time.
Many people, such as doctors and others, can function quite normally if they miss one night of sleep. Everything continues to function normally, with the possible exception of a slight lack of focus and an increase in irritability.
There are certain functions that are more affected by a lack of sleep than others. These include language control, memories, and our ability to plan. In many ways, these symptoms resemble those that accompany excess alcohol consumption. In addition to the ones mentioned above, symptoms include slowed reaction times and reduced rationalization skills. The risks are similar as well, including an increased chance of being in an accident of some kind.
Increased metabolism and difficulty with regulating body temperature can also result from missing too much sleep. If a pattern of sleeplessness continues, a person will begin experiencing hallucinations. Looking at this evidence, it becomes clear that sleep is very necessary.
The following are some of the reasons that our bodies and minds require sleep.
The body and mind are restored during sleep.
The ability to remember is increased with proper amounts of sleep.
Sleep enhances energy conservation.
Sleep is a way to keep us safe from predators.
Sleep just feels way too good!
There will always be some debate as to why we require sleep, and why we spend so much time doing it. As studies continue, eventually this mystery will be solved.
Intro to Sleeping Well
How Much Sleep Do We Need
Circadian Rhythm and Sleep
Melatonin and Sunlight
Different Stages of Sleep Cycle
Sleeping Disorder
Insomnia Cures and Treatments
Insomnia Causes, Types and Diagnosis
Narcolepsy Symptoms and Causes
Sleep Apnea Symptoms and Causes
Periodic Limb Movements In Sleep
Sleep Apnea Diagnosis and Treatment
Narcolepsy Diagnosis and Treatment
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
Insomnia Sleep Aids and Medications
Sleeping Guide and Tips
Sleep Hygiene – Taking Care of Your Sleep
Daytime Habits to Help You Sleep
Creating a Better Sleep Environment to Help You Sleep
Sleep Hygiene – How to Prepare for a Good Night Sleep
Sleep and Shift Work
How to Get Back to Sleep When Sleep is Disrupted
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