3 Signs a Lack of Sleep is Ruining Your Health
By Genevieve Cunningham
Sleep. You know you want more. Almost everyone is lacking sleep to some degree. For the most part, we function pretty well even when sleep deprived. But there is a point in which a lack of sleep begins to harm our health and ultimate well-being. How do we know when it's time to take our sleeping habits seriously? If you’re feeling a bit rundown, take a look at these three signs that a lack of sleep is ruining your health.
You Just Can't Concentrate
It's normal to occasionally lose focus or be unable to think clearly. It’s normal to have a short attention span sometimes. But if this is happening all the time, it's definitely not normal. An inability to concentrate might be a sign that you need more sleep. The same can be said for that foggy feeling in your brain or sudden memory loss. Pay attention to the signs that your brain gives you. If it's not working well, give it some rest.
You Barely Make It Through the Day
Everyone feels tired and rundown sometimes, and it's not really an issue. We’re all going to experience being tired in the morning and dragging ourselves through the door at night. But when you're barely making it through the day every day, something is definitely awry. You shouldn't feel worn out every day. If this is happening to you, you probably need to improve your sleep for several days in a row. It will take awhile to catch up on rest, but your body will feel so much better when you do.
Your Body Systems are Suffering
A lack of sleep can cause real problems in your body. You may notice that digestion and metabolism slow down. You may notice a weaker immune system and more illness. You may notice headaches and body aches and stiff joints. When your body systems begin to suffer, it’s past time to get rest. It’s time to do some serious damage control. Don't let your body suffer. Get more rest and these functions will pick back up and work efficiently again.
You can't go without sleep, and you should really stop trying to. Your body and mind need the rest more than you realize. Set a routine, make sleep a priority, and enjoy the healthier body that comes with adequate rest.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Charleston, S.C.