The importance of sleep can never be minimized. All living creatures sleep. Some mammals such as the Brown Bat, sleep up to 18 hours a day, while the Giraffe sleeps an hour in a half. Humans in their prime need at least 8 hours a day. Sleep is so crucial that without it, an animal would die.
Sleep not only repairs and rests the overall body, but it also repairs the brain and cleanses it. During REM sleep especially, the brain’s memories are sorted out. Issues, problems and other stresses are handled at the subconscious level to allow the brain to be ready for a new day of activity. It is hence critical to receive enough sleep to not only repair the body but also to help with stress.
Without sleep, we cannot cope with stress. The brain must be given its rest to recuperate and refresh itself. Like any computer, restart is essential. A fresh mind can better categorize stress and respond to stress. This is one of the biggest reasons why sleep is so critical to any type of recovery from stress, grief or trauma.
The article, “How poor sleep and high stress levels make you less healthy” by Mercey Livingston looks at the poor health consequences of high stress and low sleep. She states,
“Addressing poor sleep and high or chronic stress levels is key to maintaining high HRV and in turn, good overall health. If you struggle from insomnia, sleep apnea, or have trouble falling or staying asleep, see your doctor and talk to them about getting checked out for any underlying health problems or if you need to seek testing and treatment for sleep disorders. ”
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Please also review AIHCP’s Stress Management Consulting Program and see if it matches your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Stress Management Consulting.