Sleep Prevents Injuries

From birth, we spend a third of our lives asleep. Researchers aren’t sure why the body needs sleep but they do know that on average, the body requires 7 – 9 hours of sleep for optimal health.

Research shows that children, who get less sleep, are at greater risk of becoming overweight. On school nights, only one in five teenagers gets the optimal nine hours of sleep. Most adults don’t get enough sleep because of busy lifestyles. Insomnia affects nearly half of adults 60 years and older.

Lack of sleep makes us grumpy. I love this saying: sometimes I wake up grumpy & sometimes I let him sleep in. When tired, it is difficult to maintain a positive attitude.

Lack of sleep also causes impairment. We have trouble retaining information (memory is affected). We are not as productive. We are no longer alert to what is going on around us. We have poor judgement & make mistakes. Accidents & injuries increase.

Twice, I have been close to being hit head on by another vehicle, due to drivers falling asleep at the wheel. I am very lucky to have avoided vehicle collisions that could have been deadly. Luckily, the drivers and their passengers also escaped injury (their vehicles ended up in the ditch). If you find yourself tired & driving, pull your car into the nearest approach & have a quick nap. Don’t put yourself & innocent people in danger.

To remain physically & mentally healthier & to prevent injuries we need adequate sleep. Try to go to sleep a half hour earlier tonight. Take care of yourself! You’ll feel better for it. Sweet dreams!