What Good Sleep Does to Your Mind and Body
The quality of your sleep is just as important—and perhaps even more important—as the quantity.
Sleep is essential for life. It is as necessary to our bodies as eating, drinking, and breathing. In fact, we need sleep so much that we spend about a third of our lives asleep. What happens if we don't get enough sleep? Lack of sleep causes fatigue, increased stress, irritability, cognitive impairment, and a weakened immune system, among others.
Sleep Quality vs. Sleep Quantity
When people think of healthy sleep, they often think of sleep quantity, which measures how much sleep you get at night. But while sleep quantity is vital, there's another factor in getting a good night's sleep: sleep quality. Simply put, sleep quality refers to how well you sleep, or in other words—whether your sleep is restful and restorative. Thus, getting healthy, restorative sleep is just as important—and perhaps even more important—as the number of hours you sleep at night.
Benefits of Good Sleep
Good sleep is beneficial to one's physical health and emotional wellbeing. And these are the top benefits of getting a good night's sleep:
-
Reduced stress
Studies have shown that deep sleep helps reduce such stress by decreasing the stress hormone, cortisol, in the body. Plan an hour of quiet time before bed and make sure to get quality Zzz's every night.
Fact: Excess cortisol can aggravate skin problems (e.g., acne, psoriasis, rosacea, and eczema) as well as break down collagen, the protein that keeps skin plump and youthful.
As a side note, we also recommend journaling as a great way to manage stress.
Check out our Daydream Journal HERE.
-
Healthier, more radiant appearance
Good sleep has many beauty benefits. The fact is that the body repairs itself and recovers during sleep, leading to many skin and hair benefits. Chronic sleep deprivation can affect your looks and lead to premature wrinkling and dark under-eye circles. Meanwhile, getting good sleep daily results in plumper skin, a glowing complexion, healthier hair, and less puffy eyes. Looks like the concept of "beauty sleep" isn't a myth after all!
For the best beauty sleep you can get, we recommend Private Storey’s Satin Pillowcase, Eye Mask, Headband, and Scrunchie.
Shop them HERE.
-
Improved memory and focus
When you sleep, the brain organizes the day's events, stores memories, and clears away waste. Too little sleep impairs your ability to remember and concentrate, while a good snooze can help your brain become more effective and productive. You may even come up with creative ideas during sleep. If you want to stay sharp, more attentive, and focused throughout the day, make sure to get your slumber on.
We recommend lighting up a teacup candle by Private Storey.
Shop HERE.
-
Stronger immune system
A good night's sleep can enhance your immune system, which keeps you from getting sick. Sleep deprivation hinders your body's ability to fight infections, increasing your risk of catching the common cold. You can boost your immune system by getting enough quality sleep, coupled with eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly.
-
Healthier weight
Sleep regulates metabolism by regulating the hormones that affect your appetite and make you feel full. Lack of sleep can stimulate cravings for sugars, junk food, and other high-calorie foods. Going to bed late may lead to midnight snacking (we've all been there!) but now we know that not sleeping enough and late-night munchies make a really bad combo, and we're better off maintaining a healthy weight by prioritizing getting quality sleep.
Quality, restorative sleep is essential. Make sure to get the best sleep possible with Private Storey's best-selling sleep essentials. Our sleepwear sets are well designed and combine glamour, comfort, and affordability. Plus, they are available in different styles and fabrics to suit your style and preference. For the ultimate shut-eye, pair your sleepwear with one of our comfortable sleeping masks (shop HERE)! You could also get matching pillowcases to create a coordinating aesthetic (get your pillowcase HERE!)
Shop our collection today!
Written by Carmela A.