Sleep is an essential part of our lives, and it is essential to get enough of it to stay healthy. However, in today’s fast-paced world, many people struggle to get enough sleep. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), almost one-third of adults in the United States do not get the recommended seven hours of sleep per night. This lack of sleep can have serious consequences for our health, mood, and productivity. So who’s winning at sleep? Let’s explore the habits of 8-hour sleepers.
What are 8-hour sleepers?
Eight-hour sleepers are people who get the recommended amount of sleep per night, which is about seven to nine hours for adults. These people prioritize their sleep and make sure they get enough of it every night.
What are the habits of 8-hour sleepers?
1. They stick to a sleep schedule
Eight-hour sleepers stick to a sleep schedule, which means they go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate their internal clock and makes it easier for them to fall asleep and wake up.
2. They create a relaxing sleep environment
Eight-hour sleepers create a relaxing sleep environment by keeping their bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. They also avoid using electronic devices before bed, as the blue light can interfere with their sleep.
3. They avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed
Eight-hour sleepers avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed, as these substances can disrupt their sleep. They also avoid heavy meals and spicy foods, as these can cause indigestion and make it difficult to fall asleep.
4. They exercise regularly
Eight-hour sleepers exercise regularly, as physical activity can help improve the quality of their sleep. However, they avoid exercising too close to bedtime, as this can make it difficult to fall asleep.
5. They wind down before bed
Eight-hour sleepers wind down before bed by engaging in relaxing activities such as reading, taking a bath, or meditating. This helps them relax and prepare for sleep.
6. They prioritize their sleep
Eight-hour sleepers prioritize their sleep and make it a priority in their daily routine. They recognize the importance of sleep for their health, mood, and productivity, and they make sure they get enough of it every night.
Benefits of getting 8 hours of sleep
Getting enough sleep has many benefits for our health and well-being. Here are some of the benefits of getting 8 hours of sleep:
1. Better mood: Getting enough sleep can improve our mood and reduce feelings of irritability and stress.
2. Improved cognitive function: Getting enough sleep can improve our cognitive function, including our ability to concentrate, remember information, and make decisions.
3. Reduced risk of chronic diseases: Getting enough sleep can reduce our risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and heart disease.
4. Improved immune function: Getting enough sleep can improve our immune function, making us less susceptible to illness.
5. Increased energy: Getting enough sleep can increase our energy levels, making us feel more alert and productive throughout the day.
Conclusion
In conclusion, getting enough sleep is essential for our health, mood, and productivity. Eight-hour sleepers prioritize their sleep and make sure they get enough of it every night. By sticking to a sleep schedule, creating a relaxing sleep environment, avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed, exercising regularly, winding down before bed, and prioritizing their sleep, they are able to get the recommended amount of sleep per night. If you’re struggling to get enough sleep, try adopting some of these habits to improve the quality and quantity of your sleep.