How Much Sleep Do I Need?

How Much Sleep?

The National Sleep Foundation says while research cannot pinpoint the exact amount of sleep people need, they have created a standard of recommended ranges, sleep windows, and some rule-of-thumbs when it comes to sleep. It is also very important to pay attention to your own needs and how you feel with different amounts of sleep. The linked article below gives a more in depth look at those sleep recommendations and
good questions to ask yourself when you are assessing your needs! Remember to do what works best you!

Recommendations:

• Teenagers (14-17) need 8-10 hours of sleep
• Adults (18-64) need 7-9 hours of sleep

Learn more:

• • How Much Sleep Do We Really Need?
  • Benefits of a Good Night’s Sleep
  • Infographic to Help You Create a Better Sleeping Environment

Create a Comfy Environment

Have you ever laid in your bed trying your best to drift off only to stay awake for much longer than you wanted? Our sleep environment can have a big impact on our quality of sleep. Take a moment to notice your bedroom tonight, is there too much light, is it cluttered, is it too warm or cold, are the smells distracting, or what about the level of noises? All of these factors can play into your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep.

Ideas:

• Use black out curtains
• Spray some essential oils onto your pillow
• Declutter your night stand
• Change your linens
• Play a soothing sound
• Put your electronics somewhere besides next to your bed
• Change out your blankets according to the season
• Put on your pjs right out of the dryer

What About My Immunity?

We have all been under the weather and when we aren’t feeling up to par, a nap or a good night’s sleep might start sounding like a dream vacation. Our immune system makes and releases a protein called CYTOKINES while we are sleeping. These proteins target infections and inflammation, aiding in your immune response. While more sleep won’t make you immune to getting sick, getting enough sleep can help your body effectively respond to any illness you may be dealing with!

Learn more:

• • How Sleep Impacts Your Immune System