Often when we think about how to make our brains stronger and healthier, it can feel overwhelming or even impossible. Knowing where to start might seem confusing, especially with so much information and endless opinions.

What if we told you that prioritizing your sleep is a great place to start?

Sleep is one of the most essential aspects of a healthy brain, but it’s often overlooked. It might feel as though there isn’t enough time in the day to accomplish everything we need or want to, so the hours we should be sleeping are sacrificed to achieve something else that we might feel is more important. However, prioritizing sleep is one of the best things we can do for our brains and our bodies.

Have you ever considered how rejuvenating you feel after a good night’s sleep? Are you able to function and focus better, have more energy, and just feel better in general? Thomas Dekker said, “Sleep is the golden chain that ties health and our bodies together.” And we couldn’t agree more!

Our team at A Mind For All Seasons understands that sleep is critical for obtaining brain health and also serves as a prevention against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. When we sleep, the brain actually cleanses itself by eliminating toxins and harmful proteins that accumulated during the day. Sleep is so crucial for optimal cognitive function that it impacts everything from our mood to our memory. When our quality of sleep is inadequate, so is our ability to regulate our emotions and manage stress, two factors that play big roles in the way we think, feel, and function.

In order to enhance the quality of sleep you’re getting, we suggest starting with a relaxing bedtime routine with calming activities like reading or meditating. A consistent evening schedule can signal to your body that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep. Avoid eating heavy foods or drinking caffeine or alcohol close to bedtime. A good rule of thumb is a window of at least three hours. The body’s internal clock craves regulation, so when it comes to waking up and going to sleep, consistency matters. Aim for 6-7 hours of sleep per night in order to reduce the risk of dementia.

Although there are likely numerous other demands on your time, advocating for your sleep should be at the top of the list. By prioritizing the importance of sleep in your life, you’ll be well on your way toward improved cognitive function and a healthier brain.
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