Recent statistics from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have shown that Americans are getting increasingly less sleep. As many as 38 percent of those surveyed are lacking adequate sleep, with seven to nine hours being recommended for adults. Statistics from Canada are similar. While some have physical disabilities such as sleep apnoea preventing them from sleeping, the reason for most is simply trying to pack too much living into a day and staying up too late at night, with the result that they are not getting adequate hours of rest.
Besides the obvious health risks, did you know that lack of sleep also adds wrinkles and ages you faster? It’s not called “beauty sleep” for nothing. The skin around your eyes is very sensitive and really does age prematurely. Your eyes may also appear bloodshot when you are continually tired. As well, your skin, when rested, glows, but the reverse is also true and you may experience a lacklustre complexion and discolouration when you are sleep deprived.
One of the most obvious results of lack of adequate sleep is obesity. Researchers followed 500 people over a 13-year period and found that sleep reduction was linked indisputably with weight gain. A full report of the findings can be read at http://www.talkaboutsleep.com/sleep-disorders/2004/12/sleep-obesity-link.htm. They claimed that lack of sleep caused an increase in appetite and hunger. It’s likely no coincidence that obesity is reaching epidemic proportions about the same time as people are becoming more sleep deprived!
As well, lack of adequate sleep affects brain functions. You may have problems with performing complex tasks at home or at work. And you will find it more difficult to speak fluently, searching for the right word, or losing your train of thought. You will also forget details more easily. It will become a cause for worry for you as you recognize these inabilities, losing your confidence affecting the way you appear to people.
You will also be less enthusiastic and less energetic and if you are employed in sales or deal with the public, this can literally mean lost income and perhaps even being passed over for a promotion. Enthusiasm is contagious, and people who are normally influenced by your upbeat demeanour will also be discouraged by your opposite reaction.
Finally, stress prevents restful sleep. You sleep poorly, experiencing wakeful periods. You need to get rid of the stress in your life or risk looking tired and anxious all the time and distracted by personal problems. If you should talk to your boss about a reduced work load, or to family members about getting more help at home, do it. Say no to volunteer requests, and don’t feel like you need to be a super mom, spotless housekeeper, or the most organized worker in your office.
Get control of your life so you can get a good night’s sleep so you wake each morning well rested and ready for the day, feeling assured and looking great.
