Were you the kind of kid who didn't want to go to sleep because you were afraid of missing out on something awesome? Go ahead and count yourself in some very good company. But also know that your mom was absolutely right about setting a bedtime and sticking to it. She probably knew a thing or two about maintaining a regular sleep schedule.
We already know how critical sleep is to the body. And not just naps here and there, mind you. The body needs plenty of restful, deep sleep in order to repair itself from the day's events. It also needs that sleep consistently. Failure to get enough quality sleep on a consistent basis can contribute to all sorts of things, including high blood pressure and obesity.
Have you heard of the circadian rhythm? Circadian rhythms are physical, mental, and behavioral changes that living organisms consistently experience over cyclical, 24-hour periods. In human beings, we usually associate the circadian rhythm with the sleep-wake cycle.
Our bodies are naturally attuned to sleeping for about eight hours before waking, actively working for another 8-10 hours, and then gradually getting tired as we wind our way back to sleep. Certain chemicals produced by our brains contribute to the ability to sleep.
The point to all of this is that the body gets into a rhythm. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule plays into that. A regular sleep schedule plays into your body's natural rhythm so as to maximize your ability to sleep.
Improved sleep quality is one of the most notable benefits of establishing a consistent sleep schedule. As your body gets into its rhythm, you sleep longer and more deeply. Your sleep quality improves dramatically. There are obvious benefits to that. Here are just some of them:
It is difficult to underestimate the benefits of quality sleep on a consistent basis. If you are still struggling with the idea, compare it to something else – something you are particularly good at. Let us use the example of skiing to illustrate the point. After all, those of us in Utah are pretty familiar with it.
When you first learned to ski, you were no expert. You probably struggled like most of the rest of us. What changed things for you? Practice. Spending time on the slopes consistently practicing the skills you learned during your lessons increased both your physical and mental capabilities. Even today, the more consistent you are getting to the slopes every winter, the better you tend to ski.
Sleep is no different. Establishing a regular sleep schedule and then sticking with it allows your body to get into a routine. Your body can 'practice' sleep so to speak, helping you to eventually master the kind of deep sleep we all need for maximum health. Granted, you might need some help along the way. But that's why KindlyMD is here.
Sleep support is one of the services we offer at KindlyMD. We routinely work with patients struggling with persistent insomnia, many of whom are uncomfortable about reaching for a sleeping pill every night. That being the case, more than one patient has asked us if the Utah Medical Card is right for someone who persistently cannot sleep.
There is no blanket answer we could provide to that question. People are different. Not only that, but the root causes of persistent insomnia are also pretty extensive. Some people cannot sleep because of certain lifestyle choices that are getting in the way. Others struggle with sleep due to stress. Still others might be dealing with an underlying condition like PTSD.
Medical Cards in Utah are limited to certain qualifying conditions. Our responsibility is to evaluate each patient on an individual basis, then recommend a Medical Card when it is appropriate for a condition on the state list.
KindlyMD clinicians truly do understand how stressful it is to deal with persistent insomnia. When you cannot sleep, it is just annoying. And when sleeplessness follows night after night, the lack of rest can be overwhelming. Unfortunately, regular insomnia can have a negative impact on a person's overall health. We offer sleep support services for that reason.
A good night's sleep is important. Why? Because sleep allows the body ample opportunity to repair itself. All the wear and tear our bodies experience throughout the day needs to be addressed in order for us to maintain good health. Wear and tear are addressed mostly while we sleep. If we don't get enough restful sleep on a consistent basis, our bodies cannot repair themselves. Then breakdowns are inevitable.
Quality sleep on a regular basis is necessary in order to maintain:
A lack of sleep has been linked to all sorts of chronic health conditions ranging from diabetes to heart disease. The truth is that restful sleep is critical. That means persistent insomnia is more than just a hassle; it is bad for a person's physical and mental health.
Persistent insomnia can be treated in a number of different ways. When a Med Card is appropriate, a combination of plant-based medicines and behavioral changes are often enough to do the trick. As for when a Med Card might be appropriate, that is up to the patient and her healthcare provider to determine.
When a Med Card isn't the right way to go, that doesn't mean a person is doomed to live with insomnia for the rest of her life. Once again, there are other ways to get a handle on insomnia. Here are just a few examples:
There are times when recommending a Utah Medical Card is the right approach to addressing persistent insomnia caused by an underlying condition. There are other times when a Med Card is not the best option. If you are struggling with persistent insomnia, come visit us at KindlyMD. We can help you figure it out so you can get back to sleep.
In the fast-paced world we live in, it's easy to overlook one of the most basic yet essential components of good health: sleep. Often overshadowed by busy schedules, deadlines, and responsibilities, the importance of quality sleep cannot be stressed enough. Beyond the feeling of refreshed energy in the morning, sleep plays a profound role in maintaining our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. In this article, we'll delve into the scientific underpinnings that highlight the crucial relationship between sleep and overall health, underlining the need to prioritize restful slumber for a happier and healthier life.
Research has consistently shown that sleep is far more than a passive state of rest. It's a dynamic process during which the body engages in vital repair and regeneration. The body's cellular repair mechanisms are most active during deep sleep, contributing to the healing and restoration of various systems. During these precious hours, the brain clears out waste products that accumulate throughout the day, bolstering cognitive function and memory retention.
Moreover, sleep has a profound impact on our immune system. Studies have indicated that individuals who consistently experience sufficient sleep are better equipped to fend off infections and illnesses. Sleep strengthens immune responses, enabling the body to better identify and neutralize threats. This connection has become especially relevant in recent times, emphasizing sleep's role in maintaining robust health in the face of global health challenges.
Beyond its physiological benefits, sleep has a deep-seated impact on mental health. Inadequate sleep has been linked to heightened levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. The relationship between sleep and mental well-being is reciprocal: poor sleep can contribute to the development of mental health issues, while mental health conditions can disrupt sleep patterns. This intricate interplay underscores the necessity of nurturing a healthy sleep routine to support emotional resilience and cognitive function.
Cultivating a compassionate approach to self-care involves recognizing the importance of sleep in maintaining a balanced and vibrant life. Just as we wouldn't neglect our nutritional needs or physical activity, we should not neglect our sleep patterns. Prioritizing sleep doesn't mean merely aiming for a certain number of hours, but also embracing practices that promote restful sleep:
- Establish a Sleep Routine: Regular sleep times help regulate your body's internal clock, enhancing the quality and consistency of your sleep.
- Create a Soothing Sleep Environment: A cool, dark, and quiet room sets the stage for deep slumber. Consider investing in a comfortable mattress and pillows for optimal comfort.
- Limit Screen Time Before Bed: The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. Aim for screen-free activities an hour before bed.
- Mindful Relaxation: Engage in calming activities such as reading, meditation, or gentle stretches to signal to your body that it's time to wind down.
As we navigate the intricate tapestry of modern life, it's imperative to remember that sleep is not a luxury. It's a necessity for a resilient and thriving existence. By recognizing the profound influence sleep exerts on our physical health, mental well-being, and emotional equilibrium, we empower ourselves to make informed choices that honor our need for rest. In this journey towards holistic wellness, let us embrace the gift of sleep with compassion, understanding that each night's rest is an opportunity to nurture our greatest asset: ourselves. The care team at KindlyMD can help you find traditional and alternative sleep treatments to kickstart your journey to better sleep — schedule today.
