The importance of proper sleep for our health

2/27/20242 min read

woman sleeping on blue throw pillow
woman sleeping on blue throw pillow

Getting enough good sleep is super important for our bodies to heal and stay healthy. When we don't get enough sleep, it can cause a lot of health issues. Let's dive into why sleep is so crucial for our health, especially according to Ayurveda.

In Ayurveda, which is an ancient system of medicine, having a good snooze is seen as really important for our health and happiness. They say sleep is one of the three big things that keep us ticking along nicely, along with eating well and living a good life.

According to Ayurveda, sleep is like a natural reboot for our bodies. They think our bodies are made up of three Doshas or energy types—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each of these Doshas has a role in how we sleep and how well we sleep.

Ayurveda says that having a good balance of these energies is key for getting quality shut-eye. If one of them is out of whack, it can mess up our sleep and cause health problems.

Here's why getting enough sleep is so important for our health, according to Ayurveda:

Rest and Recharge

When we sleep, our bodies take a break and fix themselves up. It's like hitting the reset button. Our bodies make growth hormones during deep sleep, which help repair cells and grow new tissues.

Boosts Immune System

Sleep helps keep our immune system strong. While we snooze, our bodies make proteins called cytokines, which fight off stress, infections, and inflammation.

Sharpens Our Brain

Sleep is super important for thinking clearly, remembering stuff, and learning new things. It also helps us stay in a good mood and keep our emotions in check.

Aids Digestion

Good sleep helps our digestive system work properly. It helps control hormones that tell us when we're hungry and helps us digest our food better. Not getting enough sleep can mess with our weight and how our body uses energy.

Fights Inflammation

Chronic health problems like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease can be caused by inflammation in our bodies. Getting enough sleep helps reduce inflammation and keeps us healthier.

Ayurveda also gives us some tips for getting better sleep:

Stick to a Schedule

Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps our body's internal clock stay on track and makes it easier to fall asleep and wake up.

Create a Calm Space

Make your bedroom cozy and peaceful. Keep it dark, quiet, and cool. Try to avoid bright lights, loud noises, and anything that might distract you from snoozing.

Relax Before Bed

Wind down before hitting the hay. Try meditation, deep breathing, or gentle yoga to help you relax and de-stress before bedtime.

By following these tips and making sleep a priority, we can all enjoy better health and happier days ahead!