Healing Power of Kislev: Sleep
Seven is an important number in Judaism. The Divine created the earth in six days, reserving the seventh for rest, inviting us to luxuriate in our dreams. In honor of Shabbat and what dreams may come of that holy rest, here are seven reasons to get enough sleep.
1. Kick Depression and Anxiety
Scientific research suggests there’s a strong connection between sleep and mood. In 2007, a group of Norwegian scientists proved that chronic insomnia leads to a higher risk of developing mood disorders, and that even a tiny bit of sleep deprivation can lead to irritability and stress. If you’re reading this and got less than seven hours of sleep last night, stop reading right now. Take a nap!
2. Hone Your Focus
In 20013, scientists at the University of Chicago decided to test the saying, “Sometimes you just need to sleep on it.” They discovered that a good night’s sleep helps memory retention. Get enough sleep, and you’ll remember this too.
3. Express Yo’self
According to research out of the University of California, San Diego, more REM sleep gives us better access to creativity. More REM sleep helps you plan your tasks and create room in your day to be expressive. Be nice to that aspiring artist inside; get more REM sleep.
4. Pursue Super Health
Lots of really important things happen to your body when you sleep. For example, sleep is your body’s time to heal and repair itself. If you don’t have enough time to honor this process, your body has no way of protecting itself from bacterial gremlins.
5. Feel Fit
The Harvard School of Public Health reports that people who don’t get enough sleep are at a greater risk of weight gain, and more likely to suffer from obesity. Additionally, enough sleep helps you maintain a healthy appetite. Listen to Harvard--go to bed.
6. Keep It Fresh
Fact: Lack of sleep will increase inflammation in the body, create hormonal imbalances, and weaken your immune system. If you want to wake up looking flawless, get serious about hitting the sack for at least seven hours a night. They don’t call it “beauty rest” for nothing!
7. Get It On
In its March 2015 article “Better Sleep for a Better Sex Life,” the New York Times reported that when a woman gets enough sleep she’s more likely to want sex. Less sleep means less testosterone in the body, which translates to a diminished sex drive. Think of it this way: getting enough sleep helps you feel down to get down.