There are many benefits to sleeping – both psychological and physiological. However, with many people disregarding the amount of sleep needed, they are missing out on the benefits of it- with many people waking up exhausted, with no energy to continue their day or even get out of bed. However, a lengthy amount of sleep can take people a long way – though it might take time to adjust your circadian rhythm, it is very much worth it to adjust to a new schedule.

Immune system growth 

During sleep, the body increases production of immune cells – mostly T cells and cytokines. These cells are necessary for identifying and attacking infected cells and help signal direct responses in the immune system. Without good sleep, the body is weakened and cannot fight infections properly. During sleep, antibodies are also produced. When you sleep well, your body is more efficient at responding to vaccines and infections by producing a stronger, quicker antibody response. Poor sleep can slow this process down, making it harder to fight off illnesses.

Better sleep also helps improve memory

Sleep helps improve memory consolidation – this process transforms short-term memory into long-term memory, which makes memories easier to remember. During deep sleep and REM sleep, the brain processes information that was learned throughout the day, helping solidify memories and strengthen connections with neurons, making it easier to recall information that happened throughout the day. Sleep also helps strengthen synaptic connections which are the links between neurons that allows transmission of information throughout the brain. This is essential for learning and memory.

Better mood and less stress

Sleep regulates stress hormones like cortisol – also known as the “stress hormone” because it’s released during stressful situations. Sleep-deprivation leads to an increase of cortisol which makes it easier to become overwhelmed or exhausted. Good sleep helps lower cortisol levels which reduces stress and balances mood. Proper sleep also helps regulate emotion which makes it easier to cope with stress and negative emotions. Bad sleep can lead to becoming more vulnerable to mood swings.

In conclusion, sleep is arguably one of the most important moments of our day. Sleep is important for regulation of cortisol, and helps control stress – without it, it would be easier to become stressed and swing through moods. Sleep also helps improve memory, along with growth of the immune system – making it harder to get sick.