Good Sleep vs Bad Sleep

So rather than writing any lengthy high-falutin' article this time, we thought it might be a good time to summarise the great benefits of good sleep and the worrying consequences of bad sleep.

Good sleep means getting around 7-8 hours a night, going through all the key sleep phases, particularly the deep sleep phase, which when the body and mind repair and re-energise, and it means not waking up in the night.

Good Sleep

1. Increase in energy - you'll feel like a physical weight has been lifted off your shoulders, your joints and limbs will feel less achy.

2. Boost in creativity - your brain will be better rested, and more alert, more reactive and proactive.

3. Lower stress levels - you'll feel more chilled, you'll be able to cope with the stresses and rigours of the day in a more balanced and positive way.

4. Weight loss - it's true! For a start your tiredness won't lead to you needing that Mars Bar sugar rush, and you'll feel more inspired and energetic and therefore more positive about physical pursuits.

5. Mood improvement - you will feel like a new person with better sleep, many people talk about their friends and family noticing a change in them when they get better sleep.

Bad Sleep

1. Anxiety - When your brain isn't "match-fit", if it's tired, little things will get to it, and you'll feel like you can't cope with things like you should be able to.

2. Higher risk of obesity and heart disease - this is medically-proven and discussed widely (no pun intended).

3. High blood pressure - this comes from your tired body's inability to deal with stress hormones, brought about by poor sleep.

4. Decrease in productivity - we all know how this feels! We're just not firing on all cylinders.

5. Lacking in concentration - yep, it's so easy to get distracted when you're tired. Doesn't the old Facebook look that bit more appealing than your studies when you're tired?

So how can you push yourself into the Good Sleep category?