HEALTH & FITNESS BLOG

Benefits of Sleep for Your Health

By: Northwestern Medicine Health & Fitness Staff

March 9, 2021, 11:00 am - Categories: Fitness, Health News

Sleep Awareness Week March 8–14

Sleep Awareness Week spotlights the importance of sleep in our daily lives and encourages everyone to learn about habits, practices, and routines that improve our sleep quality and overall health. According to the findings by the National Sleep Foundation in their 2020 Sleep in America Poll, the average U.S. adult feels tired during the day at least three out of seven days each week. More than a quarter of us feel tired five to seven days a week. Some attribute their drowsiness to not getting enough sleep, while others claim poor sleep quality is to blame.

Getting enough sleep is key to a good night’s rest. For adults between the ages of 18 and 64, the National Sleep Foundation recommends seven to nine hours per night. People who are 65 and older should make sure they’re sleeping seven to eight hours a night.

If you frequently feel tired during the day, there are measures you can take to ensure a better night’s rest:

• Maintaining a comfortable bedroom temperature
• Minimizing exposure to noise and natural light while you sleep
• Avoiding caffeine or alcohol before bedtime
• Invest in a comfortable mattress, supportive pillow, and breathable sheets

Happy Sleep Awareness Week!

Reference: https://www.sleepfoundation.org/press-release/sleep-awareness-week-2020