The proper amount of sleep is essential for maintaining many vital functions of the body. It provides time for tissues and cells to regenerate and repair themselves. Sleep is also crucial to the immune system, which helps protect against diseases. It is important to get seven to eight hours of rest each night. In addition to the obvious benefits for your physical health, getting enough sleep also helps your mind to stay alert and reduces your risk of being moody during the day.
Despite the widespread recognition of the importance of sleep, a lack of adequate sleep is detrimental to a person's health. Although significant funding has been poured into lifestyle interventions, sleep health is still an under-emphasised area. More resources need to be invested in public education programs, screening procedures, and optimised sleeping conditions in hospitals and long-term care facilities. In addition, workplace interventions should focus on promoting healthy sleep.
Lack of sleep is a major contributor to depression and other mood disorders. A lack of sleep also contributes to a high inflammatory response. This is the body's way of fighting off potential dangers, but it also leads to friendly fire. As a result of the inflammation, immune cells attack healthy cells, putting you at risk for diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease.
The changing seasons can have an effect on your sleep. During the cold months, your body needs more fuel to warm up the air in your sleep. It is important to keep warm and eat a nutritious, calorie-dense snack at least three hours before bed. Also taking bedtime healthy snacks help you sleep.
The Benefits of Getting a Good Night's Sleep:
- Getting seven to nine hours of uninterrupted sleep every night can help prevent many serious health problems and boost your mood.
- A good night's sleep can have a major impact on your mood.
- Getting a good night's sleep is a proven way to strengthen your immune system.
- Getting a good night's sleep helps regulate emotions by helping the brain to process emotional information.
- Studies have shown that people who get insufficient sleep tend to die sooner than those who get a full night's rest.
- Getting a good night's sleep is a very important activity for your body.
- While you are asleep, your brain is free to attend to other matters within your body, and it can trigger hormones that stimulate tissue growth and repair.
Best Ways to Keep Your Sleep Normal This Winter Without Putting It on Ice:
While the weather outside is a bit chilly, there are several ways to stay warm at night without sacrificing your sleep. You can try ice packs or ice water on the mattress to reduce the heat while you sleep. You can also try freezing a pillowcase before going to bed to add a little extra cooling. These techniques are helpful year-round, even if you live in a very warm climate.
Natural Bedding
One of the best ways to keep your sleep normal this winter is to use natural bedding. Wool, which is made from natural fibers sourced from sheep or goats, is considered one of the best winter bedding materials, due to its insulating properties, moisture-wicking ability, and durability. Various types of wool are used in bed linens, and they each have a unique feel and quality. While many people associate wool with being scratchy, this is not necessarily the case. A comforter or throw blanket can add another layer of warmth to your bed. Throws are blankets with extra softness and is soft to the skin. Get throws of proper size for you and your bed to get the sleep that you desire.
Cotton Pyjamas
If you want to keep your body warm while you sleep, cotton pyjamas are the perfect choice. They're breathable, soft, and naturally derived from organic cotton. You can buy them in many different colors, patterns, and styles.
While flannel pyjamas provide warmth and are comfortable to wear in cold weather, they don't allow for much air circulation. If you live in an area that gets very cold during winter, you may want to consider thermals or box-weaved cotton PJs. While both of these materials are warm, cotton pyjamas are the most comfortable and breathable.
Cotton Pyjamas Dissipate Heat
Lightweight cotton pyjamas are one of the best ways to keep yourself comfortable this winter. Soft cotton dissipates heat and creates small gaps between you and the bed that help your body to breathe. This prevents sweating and helps your body keep a normal temperature while you sleep. Flannel pyjamas are great for colder climates, but you can also find cotton versions that are breathable and lightweight. Cotton pyjamas also keep you dry, helping you sleep without the risk of chafing.
CPAP Masks
Choosing the right CPAP mask for you is essential for keeping you breathing normally. There are several different types of masks to choose from, all designed to keep your breathing comfortable while you are using your CPAP. You should always discuss your treatment with a sleep specialist to determine which type is right for you. Some CPAP masks are designed to fit around the face, but others are designed for the nasal area. Choosing the right CPAP mask depends on your lifestyle and sleeping position.
Putting Ice Packs in the Bed
Putting ice packs in the bed to stay warm can be effective in keeping the core temperature down and improving sleep. However, sleeping with ice packs can cause damage to the skin. You should avoid placing the ice packs on your head or neck, since it can cause ice burns. Also, ice packs can cause blood vessels to constrict and cause blood clots.
When sleeping with an ice pack, make sure you rotate it every few hours to keep your body temperature normal. You should also be aware that prolonged contact with an ice pack can lead to numbness and should be removed immediately.
Conclusion
It can be tough to get good sleep during the winter months. Between shortened days, colder temperatures, and holiday stressors, it’s no wonder so many people find themselves struggling with insomnia or poor sleep quality. However, above are a few things you can do to help avoid putting your sleep on the ice this winter. We’ve outlined a few of our favorite tips above – try implementing them into your routine and see if they make a difference for you!
