Why You Need Better Sleep
Was it hard for you to get out of bed this morning? If so, you’re not the only one. Over 30% of American adults sleep significantly less than they should. We all need better sleep. Studies show that sleep is affecting our physical, mental, and emotional health more than we know. Here are some tips on getting a better night’s sleep.
Better Sleep Improves Your Health
- Better sleep can help with heart disease and chronic pain, and strengthen your immune system.
- Getting the right amount of sleep can even help with weight loss.
- Your body depends on sleep, just like it depends on food and water. Depriving it of sleep impairs many of its functions.
Better Sleep Aids Decision-Making
- Lack of sleep can make you less alert and less able to make reasoned, logical decisions.
- Sleep deprivation has even been linked to permanent brain damage and memory problems
- Sleep deficiencies can make you grumpy and more emotional, and can contribute to depression.
- Drowsy driving is extremely dangerous.
- Falling asleep while driving is responsible for at least 100,000 crashes, 71,000 injuries and 1,550 deaths each year.
Characteristics of Better Sleep
- You should be sleeping 7-9 hours a night.
- It will help if your bedroom is 60-67 degrees, dark, and quiet.
- Daily exercise helps you sleep better at night.
- Don’t exercise right before bed. Give yourself a couple of hours to wind down.
- Have a sleep schedule. Try to keep your bedtime and wake-up time the same every day.
- Have 20-30 minutes of wind-down time before bed. Technology and bright screens can distract your brain.
- Don’t eat heavy meals or drink alcohol or caffeine before bed.
- Avoid drinking lots of water before bed.
Follow these tips to enjoy better sleep and avoid drowsy driving. Better sleep will make you healthier and happier.
If you are injured in a drowsy driving accident — or know someone who was — contact us today to see if we can help you. We specialize in personal injury claims and want to help you get the compensation you need.