In our rapidly moving world, sleep is often regarded as a luxury. However, sleep should be treated as the fundamental necessity that it actually is.

In fact, sleep is just as important to our overall wellbeing as a healthy diet and regular exercise.

So, if you’ve sacrificed your sleep schedule in favour of your busy social life or upcoming work deadlines, here are just four reasons a good night’s sleep is essential for your wellbeing.

1) Improves Your Physical Health

One of the most immediate and crucial benefits of sleep is its impact on physical health. When we sleep, our brains and bodies are given time to recover. Lack of sleep weakens our immune response, making us more susceptible to illnesses such as cold and flu.

By ensuring that you get enough sleep, you can take vital steps to improving your physical health.

2) Enhances Your Mental Wellbeing

Sleep deprivation can have a profound impact on overall mental wellbeing, and chronic sleeplessness has been linked to a higher risk of mood disorders such as depression and anxiety.

Without sufficient rest, the processes that our brains go through to consolidate memories and carry out vital maintenance are disrupted. This can leave us feeling mentally exhausted and emotionally fragile.

By prioritising sleep, you’ll give your brain the time it needs to keep you feeling great.

3) Allows for Better Cognitive Function

Sleep and cognitive function are closely intertwined, and it is during sleep that the brain strengthens connections and solidifies any new information that was acquired throughout the day.

Inadequate sleep can also start to impair your creativity, as well as hampering our capacity to think critically. By making sure that you get enough sleep, you’ll help to keep your mind sharp and ensure you’re at your most productive throughout the day.

4) Enables Better Emotional Regulation

Sleep plays a vital role in emotional regulation and sleep loss can mean we have a negative emotional response to events in our lives. When we're sleep-deprived, it can lead to increased irritability and mood swings, potentially damaging our personal relationships.

Getting enough quality sleep can ensure that we’re always prepared to handle life’s ups and downs, and help to keep our emotions regulated and healthy.

Why is Sleep Essential to Our Wellbeing?

Remember, sleep is not a luxury but a fundamental requirement for our wellbeing. Its impact on physical health, mental wellbeing, cognitive function, and emotional regulation cannot be overstated. To prioritise sleep is to invest in a healthier, more fulfilling life.

So, if you find that you’re struggling to get the sleep you need, you should evaluate the potential reasons why.

One of the most common issues comes from an uncomfortable mattress. They aren’t designed to last forever, so if yours is getting old, then consider consulting with experts such as Archers Sleep Centre to find the perfect mattress that will allow you to get the sleep you need.