Sleep Hygiene

WHY IS SLEEP HYGIENE IMPORTANT?

Getting quality sleep is essential for both our physical and mental well-being. It enhances our productivity and improves our overall quality of life. People of all ages can benefit from better sleep, and practicing good sleep hygiene can help!

Benefits of sleep

• Energy conservation: Sleep reduces energy expenditure when activity isn’t necessary, helping us preserve resources for when they’re needed most.
• Healing and growth: Sleep allows the body to rejuvenate itself. Muscle growth, tissue repair and protein synthesis occur mostly (or in some cases exclusively) when we are asleep!
• Better memory and concentration: Brain plasticity is the brain’s ability to adapt, reorganize and form new neural connections. Sleep helps strengthen neural connections and facilitates memory consolidation. This is why it’s always important to get a good night's sleep before an exam!

Tips for better sleep

Keep a consistent schedule

Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, including weekends. This helps regulate your body’s internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up naturally.

Create a comfortable sleep environment

Set the right temperature, choose the right bedding, reduce noise and keep your sleep environment dark!

Turn off electronic devices before you sleep

Electronic devices like phones emit blue light, which can lower melatonin levels — the chemical that regulates your sleep/wake cycle.

Additional resources

Here are some other resources to help you sleep better:

• How to clean up your sleep habits
• Keep a sleep diary

Sweet dreams!