I was sitting on the couch in our family sitting room when Adisa, my younger brother’s friend, came in. Prior to his entry, I was engrossed with Oliver Sacks’ book titled 'The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat.' It is about a man who had visual agnosia (the inability to recognize objects by sight unless touched or if the object makes a sound). It was indeed hilarious for me.
Adisa had been complaining about his inability to sleep for some time due to various reasons, and sometimes he had to resort to using sleeping pills. As the big brother of the house, I felt it was my responsibility to sit him down and give him a lecture of his life, one he wouldn't forget in a jiffy. I know you're interested in what I told him? Let me share some of it with you as well.
In the quiet moments of the night, as the world slips into slumber, something profound happens within us. It's not just rest for our weary bodies; it's a crucial restoration for our minds. Yet, in the hustle and bustle of modern life, sleep often takes a backseat, its importance diminished by the demands of the day.
But what if I told you that your adolescent sleep habits could shape your mental health in adulthood? Yes, you heard that right. Recent research has unveiled a startling truth: those who suffer sleep deprivation during their teenage years may be setting themselves on a path fraught with psychiatric disorders later in life.
Imagine, the innocent late-night chats with friends, the endless scrolling through social media, the pressing deadlines that keep you burning the midnight oil—all seemingly harmless activities. Yet, they may be laying the groundwork for future mental health challenges. So, what can we do to protect ourselves?
"sleep hygiene" is the key to unlocking the power of sleep and safeguarding our mental wellness. But what exactly is sleep hygiene? It's not about scrubbing yourself clean before bed (though a warm shower can certainly help). Instead, it's a set of practices and habits designed to promote quality sleep and ensure we reap all its benefits.
First and foremost, let's talk about bedtime routines. Just like a soothing lullaby, a consistent bedtime ritual signals to our bodies that it's time to unwind and prepare for sleep. Whether it's reading a book, practicing gentle yoga, or simply dimming the lights, praying and sipping a cup of herbal tea, find what works for you and stick to it.
Next up, let's address the elephant in the room—screen time. Our beloved gadgets emit a blue light that disrupts our natural sleep-wake cycle, making it harder for us to drift off into dreamland. So, power down those devices at least an hour before bedtime and give your brain a chance to switch off too.
Now, onto our sleeping environment. Think of your bedroom as a sanctuary for sleep—a peaceful retreat where worries and stressors melt away. Keep it cool, quiet, and comfortable, and banish any distractions that might disrupt your rest.
And finally, let's not forget the importance of regular sleep patterns. Just as our bodies thrive on routine during the day, they crave consistency when it comes to sleep. So, aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Your body will thank you for it.
Remember, it's not about perfection; it's about progress. So, let's commit to nurturing our sleep habits and prioritizing our mental wellness. After all, a good night's sleep is the foundation upon which our dreams are built.
Funny enough, I entered my room today around 8pm to see Adisa sleeping on my bed with his slippers on. Adisa and his slippers actually slept. Who then sleeps pass? I just murmured in my heart, 'the Lord gives his beloved sleep.' Till I see you next time, go and sleep, Hahaha.
0 comments:
Post a Comment