The Importance Of Sleep:
Everyone needs sleep. Adequate sleep is essential to maintain the health function of the human systems, and it is essential for survival.
Sleep affects ALL aspects of the human body- from immune function, physical performance, memory, concentration, digestion and mood. Sleep is crucial to recovery and muscle regeneration after a day of hard workouts, racing and training.
Different people need different amounts of sleep. Restorative sleep is thought to be at least 8-8.5hrs for an adult and up to 14hrs for children.
How often do you get at least 8 hours of sleep?
It's not like we are talking about getting enough water (8x8oz glasses per day) or enough fruits and veggies...no this is ESSENTIAL sleep we are discussing here. Again I will ask:
How often do you get at least 8 hours of sleep?
There are numerous studies that show the dangers of sleep deprivation. Cognitive tasks are impaired, lack of judgment, inability to focus, lack of coordination are just a few. What about it's relationship with weight gain and poor nutrition? Not to mention chronic illness, especially upper respiratory infections.
And how much caffeine do you drink to combat your lack of sleep and fatigue? Caffeine, a stimulant, acts to block the sleep inducing chemicals and increases your adrenaline production- all things which cause you to feel more awake. However, most caffeine containing drinks contain other substances, (sugar) and possibly others which actually may have a reverse effect.
Should you consider how much sleep you get (or miss?) Naps are essential to our overall health. Naps aren't just for kids. Numerous studies have shown that a 40 minute nap improved both performance and alertness in individuals. Even a 10 minute nap can greatly increase your short term alertness without affecting your nightime sleep rituals. Also, these short naps can reduce overall sleepiness and improve cognitive performance.
If you are an athlete, or not, sleep is crucial to your overall health and well being. Sick of being sick? Sick of being injured? Stop looking at all the other elements of your training and start looking at your recovery plan. If sleep isn't the first part of your training plan, stop and rethink your goals. Visualize yourself as a strong, confident athlete with great results. Then, put sleep into your training plans and follow your "advice"
You will see marked improvement and better health overall. Hey- you may even lose those last lbs that have been persistently hanging around your waist. Lastly, make a sleep calendar or put your hrs of sleep on that training log. Then be prepared to feel awesome!
Ali
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