Jasmine's Place Issue No. 11 - May/June 2014 | Page 13

A good night’s sleep isn’t easy to achieve, but is vital to wellness. Here are three benefits to a full night of rest. SLEEP IS GOOD FOR WHAT AILS YOU. If you have a cold, getting rest is one of the first things a doctor recommends. Scientists also found those getting adequate rest had better weight loss success. Hormones and metabolism are linked to sleep, so those enjoying rest have better hormonal levels and weight loss. A good night’s sleep also reduces inflammation. This benefit can be a life saver. Inflammation issues are linked to heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and more. It’s important to get more than six hours of sleep in order to enjoy these health benefits. A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP IMPROVES FOCUS. Again, research shows that those who are able to rest for six hours or more have better focus. Their memory improves and they are able to enjoy better grades in school. They have increased creativity for work and sports. Even though your mind is busy while you’re asleep, the rest gives the mind strength to learn new things and stay engaged with people and tasks, when you wake up. REST REDUCES STRESS. Even in fictional television dramas viewers see heroes tortured through sleep deprivation. Not getting proper rest . is a form of torture. For those that are able to get in a full night’s sleep, they show less stress in their lives. With less stress, moods improve, and that also boosts overall health and wards off depression. Enjoying a full night’s sleep has so many benefits that scientists are dedicated to continuous research because they are learning so much about the role of proper rest. Although our sleep is as simple as reducing stress, it’s noted for being a key ingredient in wellness. It’s worth giving your body a consistent night- time routine for the best sleep possible. Recommended Reading: The Harvard Medical School Guide to a Good Night's Sleep (Harvard Medical School Guides) by Lawrence Epstein, M.D., and Steven Mardon. Julie Arduini is a writer and speaker who encourages audiences to find freedom through surrender. She knows it has to start with her, so she’s surrendering the good, the bad, and---maybe one day---the chocolate. She blogs for Christians Read, the Bella Women Network, and is working on her Adirondack based contemporary romance. Visit her at www.juliearduini.com JASMINE'S PLACE 13 13