We all know we feel happier after a good nights sleep.
But outside of our own feelings, it’s imperative to know that it’s not just a feeling:
there is a physiological change.
Specifically:
Sleep minimises stress
After 1 night lack of sleep, research shows a 37% rise in stress hormone cortisol -
making you feel anxious and impairing the use of your frontal lobe
Conversely, quality sleep minimises stress, and improves functioning of your frontal lobe -
making you more about to make rational, calculated and well planned decisions.
Sleep minimises negativity, particularly if you’re chronically sleep deprived
Following up from above, with high levels of cortisol; you are more likely to
assess a neutral situation as negative, and exacerbate what could be a minor problem into a major one.
And for those chronically sleep deprived, know that evidence pinpoints negativity is relative to the severity and accumulation of your sleep debt.
On the flip side, ensuring you are sleeping soundly reduces your stress levels, and thus, your negativity.
With perception the key in all circumstances, this is a surefire way to feel happy, healthy and grateful.
Quality sleep encourages healthy habits
A 2018 study of Australian adults found those sleep deprived were
more likely to skip exercise, be irritable and argue within their relationships.
As you can imagine, this causes a ripple effect: less exercise means fewer natural endorphins
and a greater reliance upon sugar and caffeine, higher levels of anxiety and feelings of lethargy and fatigue.
Similarly, arguing within a relationship can contribute to long term issues - especially if the individual is chronically sleep deprived and thus often irritated.
On the other hand, attaining quality sleep facilitates higher quality relationships and higher quality time: instead of laying on the couch motionless you’re likely to get out and enjoy life together. Similarly, exercise helps manage weight, releases feel good endorphins and
aligns you with those who are proactive in their wellbeing.
