If you’re reading this, chances are you managed to get some sleep last night. But are you feeling truly rested? It’s an important question to consider, according to experts. While most of us spend about a third of our lives sleeping, the ideal amount of sleep can vary. Babies and children typically need more sleep, while adults aged 65 and older can often function well with slightly less than the recommended seven to nine hours per night.
Sleep remains somewhat of a mystery, despite its crucial role in our overall health. Dr. Rafael Pelayo, a sleep specialist at Stanford University, emphasizes the importance of quality over quantity when it comes to sleep. He points out that the goal should be to wake up feeling refreshed, rather than simply logging hours in bed.
The National Sleep Foundation suggests that adults between 26 and 64 aim for seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Sleep patterns change throughout our lives, with newborns requiring the most sleep and adolescents experiencing shifts due to rapid growth and development. Women and men may have different sleep experiences, with research indicating that while women do not necessarily need more sleep than men, they tend to get slightly more on average.
Understanding the importance of quality sleep and recognizing individual differences in sleep needs can help us prioritize this essential aspect of self-care.
Sleep patterns at UC Berkeley can be affected by hormones, particularly in women during pregnancy and menopause. Dr. Mithri Junna, a sleep specialist at Mayo Clinic, notes that menopausal women may experience worsened sleep with more frequent awakenings at night. Additionally, women may require more sleep before their menstrual cycle. It is important to pay attention to your body’s signals for adequate rest. Lack of sleep can lead to negative effects on mental and physical health, such as increased risk of depression, cardiovascular issues, weakened immune system, and higher likelihood of Alzheimer’s disease. If you are consistently waking up tired despite getting enough sleep, consulting your primary care physician or a sleep specialist may be beneficial.
