Sleep Deprivation.

We all know the feeling at one point or another of lacking sleep. Maybe it’s because you have a new family and sleepless nights being up with the newborn have become the norm. Or potentially you have been cramming for some final exams and sleep was simply less important at that time. But have you ever thought of what it can do to you.

So what actually is Sleep Deprivation and how do we know if we are heading down that road? Sleep deprivation is a general term to describe a state caused by inadequate quantity or quality of sleep, including voluntary or involuntary sleeplessness and circadian rhythm disorders (translated as not getting enough sleep). Sleep is just as important to the human body as food and water, but many of us simply don’t get enough sleep. Lack of sleep can have serious consequences to how we function during our normal daily routines. A sleep deprived person is accident prone, judgement impaired and more likely to make mistakes and bad decisions. In fact, staying awake for 24 hours can lead to a reduced hand eye coordination that is similar to having a blood alcohol level of 0.1.

So, what are some suggestions to avoid this in our time poor lives:

• Purposely go to bed earlier each night.
• Don’t smoke or drink alcoholic or caffeinated beverages in the hours before bed time.
• Improve your sleeping environment in any way you can – for example, keep it dark and sound proof, turn off lights and wear ear plugs if needed.
• Don’t have any distractions in the bedroom such as TV or a computer.
• Use relaxation techniques to help you fall asleep quickly.
• Seek professional assistance for sleep disorders such as snoring.

Just remember the point that was stated earlier. Sleep is just as important as food and water! Try and make sleep a priority in your life. And if all else fails try sleeping on a Sommuto.