Sleep Well, Think Well, Feel Well
10 Oct is the World Mental Health Day! Let’s take a look at how we can advocate for ourselves and prioritise our wellbeing!
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in activities that keep us from getting enough sleep. After studying or working hard all day, we just want to unwind with our favourite show, be immersed in our favourite book, or chatting with friends. But when our head hits the pillow, we’re reluctant to close our eyes and keep scrolling our phones…
How does sleep work?
Let’s think of our brains as a popular shopping centre. Throughout the day, it is filled with activities and interactions; everyone is hustling and bustling. As the day goes by, things get moved around and trash builds up. Just like how a shopping centre needs to be cleaned and organised after a long day, our brain also needs time to tidy up and reorganise during sleep, readying itself for the next day’s activities. If not well rested, it can lead to symptoms of anxiety and depression, and potentially develop a mental health condition in the long-term.
Why is sleep important?
Sleep is important because it is a time of rest and repair. While you sleep, your brain continues working to maintain physical health, such as to heal and digest food, as well as to manage your mental health. In fact, one theory about why we dream is that it is our brain processing the events of the day. When we do not get enough sleep, or sleep inconsistently, it can interfere with how our brain sorts through our experiences.
How do we improve our sleep?
One of the reasons why we have a hard time falling asleep, or we wake up feeling groggy, is because of poor sleep hygiene. This is our nightly routine for going to bed, and can refer to what we do before sleep or how we sleep.
Sleep in a comfortable environment. Reduce distractions like light and sound in your room by closing the curtains and windows. Consider earplugs or eye masks!
Sleep and wake up at consistent times to create a schedule, even on weekends. Prepare your body for sleep with a routine, such as a warm drink, listening to music, setting an alarm, changing into your pyjamas etc.
Limit screens at least half an hour before bed, as screen light keeps your brain active! If necessary, put your phone out of arm’s reach or in a drawer when it’s time to unwind.
Stay active during the day. Regularly exercise and get some sun. This gives you energy during the daytime, and signals to your brain and body that nighttime is for rest and relaxation.
Good quality and sufficient sleep helps stabilise emotions, boost energy and focus, and improve mental health. To celebrate World Mental Health Day, and be one step closer in taking care if ourselves, let's start prioritising sleep!
