Why ruin a perfect nap or a refreshing long-night sleep with a steaming cup of guilt? It defeats the whole idea. We were raised with the mindset that productivity is the fueling force of success, and therefore, sleep becomes a hindrance rather than a necessity—”sleep is for the lazy man.” Yet, research has proven time and again that sleep is crucial for overall health and well-being, especially when it comes to cognitive function and productivity. Contrary to popular perception, success requires a healthy amount of sleep.
The science of sleep: Poor sleep equals poor productivity
Sleep is a complex physiological process that is essential for maintaining optimal brain function. During sleep, the brain goes through several stages, including rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and non-REM sleep. The process is a big bunch of exchange of signals and secretions of hormones. Once the light goes down, the eyes send signals to the suprachiasmatic nucleus within the hypothalamus. The nucleus alerts the pineal gland to secrete the melatonin hormones that put the body to sleep. In addition to this, the brain continues to function to regulate the body’s organs and systems.
One of the key functions of sleep is to consolidate memories and information learned during the day. The cerebral cortex, which is the part of the brain that processes memories, receives information from the thalamus during sleep. Studies have shown that people who get enough sleep perform better on memory tasks and are able to retain information more effectively than those who are sleep-deprived.
Want to boost your productivity level? Sleep
Sleep plays a crucial role in productivity. When we sleep, our brains are able to recharge and rejuvenate, allowing us to wake up feeling refreshed and alert. This is essential for maintaining focus, attention, and motivation throughout the day.
On the other hand, lack of sleep can have a detrimental effect on productivity. Sleep deprivation has been linked to decreased cognitive function, impaired decision-making, and an increased risk of accidents and errors. In fact, studies have shown that being sleep deprived for just one night can have a similar effect on cognitive function as being legally drunk.
Everyone needs sleep
Everyone needs a healthy amount of sleep. This is to say that excessive sleep can be a problem. Every part of the body is positively affected when you sleep; the brain is able to function better. How much sleep do you need for a productive day? Adults aged 18 to 64 deserve seven to nine hours of sleep, while those aged 65 and up should get 7 to 8 hours. The consensus is that individuals require at least 7 hours of sleep per night for productivity. Did you say, but I am always busy? Truly Busy or Just Addicted to Stress?
How to go about it: Maintain a consistent schedule
- Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body’s internal clock.
- Establish a relaxing bedtime routine to signal to your body that it’s time to wind down. This could include activities such as reading, taking a warm bath, or practicing meditation or yoga.
- Make sure your bedroom is conducive to sleep. Keep it dark, quiet, and cool, and invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows.
- The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Try to avoid screens for at least an hour before bed.
- Both caffeine and alcohol can disrupt sleep patterns. Try to limit consumption, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime. Caffeine inhibits the effect of adenosine, a hormone secreted in the brain to aid sleep.
By prioritising sleep and developing healthy sleep habits, you can improve your productivity and ultimately lead a more fulfilling life. So, next time you’re tempted to sacrifice sleep for productivity, remember that a well-rested mind is a more productive one, and a well-rested body can soar beyond the skies. Stay up to date on the newest in the world of Fashion, Arts, Beauty and Lifestyle; Follow FAB on Instagram.
