The Importance of Sleep

Did you know that the average person spends at least one-third of their life asleep? (As a mother of three AND a multi-business owner, I think that number is less for me…) But I’m here to tell you and myself that sleep is absolutely vital.

I know what you’re thinking.

Michelle, you will say, eyes wide, when will I find the time?

I will laugh and agree as I take a sip of my first (or second) margarita from Agave Mexican Restaurant in Fairhope, Alabama. I’ll tell you, I know, I know. But you have to MAKE time.

Why? Sleep is an essential part of anybody’s life. After you read this blog, you will want to cancel your afternoon meetings and curl up for a very long, very deep and very restorative nap.

Sleep Can Benefit Your Physical Health

My kids love the Wall-E movie. You know the one–the one with the trash robot that falls in love with the sleek EVE prototype, and they help de-evolved humans rehabilitate planet Earth. Humans in the movie have fewer bones and much larger faces than we do now. I imagine that, if we slept and didn’t move for that long, we would look like that too.

But we don’t! Sleep actually contributes to physical health in so many positive ways. Sleep can help your body heal from any physical trauma, as well as repair blood vessels. If you don’t sleep, or sleep enough, you risk running a higher chance of heart disease, diabetes and other health issues.

Sleep Can Improve Mental Health

Sleep is like turning your computer off and back on. It helps reset your brain for each new day and its adventures. For example, a sufficient amount of sleep can improve productivity, creativity, concentration and so much more. It can also decrease depression. 

So, What is the Magic Number?

Humans need at least 8 hours of sleep per night. Like I said–with three kids, numerous businesses and my own life to enjoy, I understand how difficult it is to get enough sleep. Sleeping helps make you a better person for yourself, for your loved ones and everyone else in your life!

I swear by my planner. If you carve out enough time in the day and deliberately mark it, you are more likely to respect that time. Set a bedtime for yourself, or turn off your phone at least an hour before bed. Setting these intentions will help you improve your nightly routine and accomplish the magic number of hours of sleep.

Now, if you don’t mind, I’m going to go take a nap…