Sleep and it’s Effect on Your RelationshipsI’ll admit it; I used to be one of “those” people who thought it was cool or hip to say, “I”ll sleep when I’m dead.” I kind of liked the idea of putting myself in the same Alpha category as Martha Stewart and Donald Trump; two people who often prided themselves on needing very little sleep (both frequently said 3 to 4 hours-only; to be exact). I would say to myself, if I only needed 4 hours sleep (which I soo don’t), think how productive I could be?! I’m not sure what happened or where the turning point was that changed my position (I got smart?), but my position certainly changed. Some where along the way, between getting married and having children, I quickly realized sleep, and getting enough of it was not only a good thing, but it was necessary (not to mention cool and hip, too). I remember coming across a funny quote, “Sleep Is the New Sex.” This statement is especially true for new parents. Sleep, like sex, is something everyone wants, but can’t always get enough of. As a new parent, one quickly realizes when you have kids, getting a good night’s sleep is a luxury and, unfortunately, definitely not the norm. This could explain why many young families walk around feeling like the dawn of the dead. Eight percent of couples said that feeling tired impacted their intimacy level, too. Sleep deprivation not only impacts a person’s health, but has an impact on one’s mental health. Studies found that mice who were kept up and not allowed to sleep for three days actually died. The research also shows that although our quality of sleep diminishes with age, our need for sleep does not. Although many people feel they only need 3 to 4 hours sleep, the evidence supports, even though people do require different amounts of sleep, most people require seven to eight hours of sleep in order to function at their best. As the “Successful Relationship” expert on the Sleep Number® Quality of Life Advisory Board, I can easily say that a lack of sleep takes a pretty serious toll on our mood. By missing out on the right amount of sleep, we are not only cheating ourselves, but those around us out of getting a more alert, effective and productive wife, friend, partner, mother, father (you get the picture). Insufficient sleep, can also cause: - Decreased performance and productivity It also affects our personalities and sense of humor, which isn’t a good thing for those who have to be around us on a regular basis. Sleep is a time for restoring our mental energies. It’s also a way to take proper care of ourselves and in doing so, take proper care of those around us. The good news is, good preparation helps us to sleep better. So here are a few of my tips: 1) Stick to a regular sleep schedule Now you’re all good to go! The bottom line is, if you want to look, feel and be your best self, get the zzz’s that you need. No more excuses! You’ll be a lot happier when you’re well rested, and your loved ones will thank you and be grateful for the new you too. And what could be better than that??
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