It’s Time To (Deep) Sleep!

We often hear that sleeping 7 to 8 hours a night is essential for an average adult. But did you know the quality of your sleep matters as well?

What is Deep Sleep?

There are four stages in the sleep cycle, and the third stage is the MOST important. This third stage is called NREM stage 3 or DEEP SLEEP. Deep sleep is what makes you feel refreshed in the morning, as at this stage your body and brain waves slow down.

It’s hard to wake from deep sleep, and if you do, you may feel particularly groggy.

Benefits of Deep Sleep

There are a variety of benefits that happens in your body when you reach your deep sleep stage. Among it are:

• Increase in glucose metabolism in the brains that supports short-term and long term memory and overall learning
• Secretion of hormones from the pituitary glands for the body’s growth and development
• Tissues and bones repair and growth
• Increase of blood supply to muscles
• Strengthening the immune system
• Cell regeneration

How Much Deep Sleep Do I Need?

Studies have shown deep sleep accounts for 13 to 23 percent of overall sleep time. However, it is important to note that deep sleep decreases with age. If you are under the age of 30, you may be able to achieve two hours of deep sleep each night. If you’re above the age of 65, you might only receive a half-hour of deep sleep each night, if at all.

There is no set amount of deep sleep required, although younger people may require more since it stimulates growth and development. Older adults still require deep sleep, although a lack of it does not always imply a sleeping disorder.

How Do I Know If I am Getting Enough Deep Sleep?

If you wake up feeling exhausted, it may be a sign that you’re not getting enough deep sleep!

One way that we often ask our Achievers to measure their deep sleep is through their smart watches. Smart watches from brands like Garmin, Samsung and FitBit are able to not only measure how much deep sleep you are getting, but it can also identify your sleep patterns as well.

Alternatively, you can also go for a sleep study called polysomnography (PSG)

Time to get some deep sleep in for a healthy body and mind!

Read more: Improve Your Mental Health With Fitness Today

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