How Much Sleep Is Healthy?

March 1, 2023

We are all so busy in our daily lives that it can be hard to prioritize sleep! It is often the first thing to go when we are busy working, packing lunches, cleaning the house or even just hitting the “next episode” button on your TV.

But getting a proper amount of sleep each night is crucial to your overall health. It can help maintain your immune system and help your entire body function better!

Our AFC Urgent Care Tyvola Road team wants you to get more sleep, so we explain the importance of a full night’s rest below.

Why Do We Need Sleep?

Our bodies need time to rest and recover from each day. While we are sleeping, our brains are busy working to help create memories and build communication with the body’s nerve cells. Sleep also allows your body to rest and recharge your immune system.

While you sleep, you cycle through stages of sleep between NREM (non-rapid eye movement) sleep and REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. These stages happen multiple times throughout the night and each one is important in ensuring you feel well-rested when your alarm goes off in the morning.

The Benefits of Getting Enough Sleep

Better memory
More focused attention span
Better mood and stress levels
Better health

How Many Hours of Sleep Should I Get?

Adults should aim for seven to nine hours of uninterrupted sleep at night. If that number seems really high or unrealistic for you, start slow and build your way up! Instead of scrolling on your phone for 30 minutes before bed, start your bedtime routine. The same goes for the TV! Your favorite show will be there tomorrow, so head to bed instead of firing up the next episode.

If you have children in your home, make sure they are getting quality sleep as well! Children ages 3 to 5 should be getting at least 10 hours of sleep at night, and teenagers should aim for eight to 10 hours. Try turning off screens and electronics after dinner and encourage quiet, calming activities until bedtime. The more sleep everyone in your house gets, the better off you will be.