Contents
Sleep Less and Exercise More For Better Physical and Mental Health
Getting the right amount of sleep and exercise is essential for both physical and mental health. Studies have shown that those who sleep less and exercise more may enjoy a better quality of life, while those who sleep too much and aren’t active may be at risk for developing chronic health problems.
The amount of sleep and exercise needed varies from person to person, but there are certain guidelines that can help individuals achieve better physical and mental health. As a general rule, most adults should aim to get at least six to eight hours of sleep per night and engage in physical exercise for at least three days a week.
How Can Sleeping Less and Exercising More Improve Health?
- Improves Mood. Studies have shown that regular sleep and exercise can improve mood and lessen the symptoms of mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression. Exercise releases endorphins, which are hormones that make us feel good and help to reduce stress and tension.
- Enhances Cognitive Performance. Sleep is important for learning and remembering, while physical activity boosts mental focus and alertness. Therefore, those who are well-rested and physically active are able to get more out of their studying and work than those who don’t get enough rest or exercise.
- Increases Energy. When we’re well-rested and physically active, our energy levels increase, allowing us to be more productive throughout the day. Furthermore, exercise has been shown to improve sleep quality and offset the effects of sleep deprivation.
- Improves Heart Health. Regular physical activity has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease. This is because exercise helps to regulate heart rate and blood pressure, as well as to reduce stress and anxiety, which are risk factors for heart diseases.
- Regulates Weight. Exercise burns calories and builds muscle, both of which can help regulate weight. Additionally, getting enough sleep is important for controlling hunger hormones. Therefore, those who don’t get enough sleep may be more likely to overeat.
How To Take Action
To get on the path to better physical and mental health, it’s important to develop a consistent sleep and exercise routine. Establish a regular sleep schedule in which you wake up and go to bed at the same time each day. And make sure to engage in physical activity a few times a week—aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, such as jogging, biking, or swimming.
It’s also important to create healthy habits and stick to them. Try to incorporate healthy eating and stress relief practices, such as meditation or yoga, into your daily routine. Doing this can make it easier to stay consistent and help you maintain better physical and mental health.
Conclusion
Sleeping less and exercising more can do wonders for physical and mental health. Doing so will help to boost mood and performance, enhance heart health, and regulate weight. Creating a consistent sleep and exercise routine will help an individual to achieve their physical and mental health goals.