Your Sleep Needs You!

Ask, not what your sleep can do for you, but what you can do for your sleep.

DID YOU KNOW

Our brains control our sleep, every night when we fall asleep our brains are active controlling many processes for our physical and mental restoration for the next day. Sleep could be one of our bodies most complex biological processes.

KEY POINTS

• There are four sleep stages that we go through each night.

• Each sleep stage has a specific function aiding the brain to carry out restorative functions.

• During sleep the brain goes through a ‘dish washer cycle’ removing metabolic waste.

• Rapid Eye Movement (REM) Sleep – this is our cognitive restorative sleep, our ‘counselling’ sleep.

• Our brains have to slow down for sleep.

• Sleep is controlled by two keys components - Circadian Rhythm and Homeostatic Sleep Drive

• Keeping to a regular wake up time helps anchor our circadian rhythm.

• Is your bed suitable? An ergonomic bed is one that supports the spine’s natural alignment, reduces pressure on key joints, allows movement without resistance or strain, encourages circulation and muscular recovery, adjusts to your body’s unique shape and sleep habits.

• Exposing ourselves to early morning sunlight switches off melatonin and switches on cortisol.

• Follow the 10 Point Sleep Check List for Sleep Hygiene.

DOWNLOAD 10 POINT SLEEP CHECK LIST

Sleep Focus 10 point sleep checklist.pdf

Download PDF • 2.87MB