Sleep is an essential part of physical wellness. Studies have shown that inadequate sleep can increase the risk of obesity, heart disease, and infections. The relationship between sleep and overall physical health is well-documented. Sleep allows both the body and the brain to rest and recover during the night.
A good night's rest ensures that you'll feel refreshed and alert when you wake up in the morning. Recent research indicates that exercise can reduce sleep disorders and insomnia in patients, with effects similar to those of sleeping pills. However, more research is needed to compare physical exercise with medical treatments for insomnia. Studies have revealed that lack of sleep can cause health problems by altering the levels of hormones involved in processes such as metabolism, appetite regulation, and stress response. Even reducing sleep by two or three hours a night can have dramatic health consequences. Sleep deprivation can mean that your body is less prepared to fight viruses and infections, making you more susceptible to diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
People often overlook the potential long-term health consequences of lack of sleep and the impact that health problems can ultimately have on time and productivity. A good night's sleep helps everyone feel refreshed and prepared for the next day, but people who suffer from depression may experience an even greater benefit. If you're having trouble falling asleep, raising your heart rate too close to bedtime may contribute to that, but for other people, sweating at the end of the day may not affect sleep. The different processes that occur during sleep help promote healthy brain activity and maintain good overall health. According to a study, getting enough sleep has been shown to help motivate people to follow their exercise plans and to exercise the next day. Later studies also support the use of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to treat sleep disorders and alleviate symptoms of depression. Research has shown that high-intensity exercise delays the onset of sleep, probably due to the increase in heart rate after going to the gym.
It is important to find a balance between physical activity and restful sleep in order to maintain optimal physical wellness.
