Sleep
Sleep problems are the second leading health impediment to academic success. Sleep is needed to restore our mind and body to peak health, as well as to consolidate the learning that we have done during the day. Studies show that students remember detailed course material better the next day if they get a good night's sleep rather than stay up all night trying to "cram" more information into their already bursting brains. Researchers have found that the average human needs an average of 8.29 hours of sleep per night in order to function optimally; college students sleep an average of 6 hours per night. Too little sleep has also been associated with weight gain sleep and weight gain as well as fatigue, poor memory, depressed mood and poor motor skills.
Benefits of healthy sleep:
- More efficient studying,
- More energy during the day
- Improved physical appearance
- Better Mood
Good Sleep tips:
- Sleep 7-9 hours per night.
- Avoid caffeine after 4-6 hours before bedtime.
- Sleep in a quiet and dark place (use earplugs and/or a sleep mask if necessary).
- Avoid alcohol 4-6 hours before bedtime (it can interfere with sleep).
- Wind down at least 20 minutes before going to bed.
- Don’t study or watch tv on your bed.
- Set a consistent bedtime and wake time.
- Exercise regularly (but not right before bed).
- Worry away from bed.
- If you sleep a lot, yet don’t feel rested, talk to a doctor. This could be a symptom of sleep apnea, depression or another medical problem.
