Sleep

Regular and sufficient sleep plays a vital role in physical health

Sleep

Regular and sufficient sleep plays a vital role in physical health, enabling the body to heal and repair. Although each individual’s sleep needs are unique, on average, most adults require six to eight hours of sleep each night to feel alert and well rested.

19%

of respondents receive less than six hours

Unsurprisingly many of those who received less than six hours sleep had two or more children.
For those who do not receive sufficient sleep on a regular basis, over time, feeling tired may become accepted as normal, resulting in decreased cognitive function and a negative impact on long term health.

Tips to help your body get the rest it needs

• Go to bed and wake up at approximately the same time each day
• Avoid long naps during the day
• Keep your room cool, quiet, and dark
• Follow a routine to help relax before sleep
• Exercise regularly – but avoid working out close to bedtime
• Avoid watching television in bed
• Switch off electronic devices and mobile phones at bedtime
• Reduce caffeine intake throughout the day
• Don’t eat big meals before bedtime
• If having trouble sleeping, get up do something relaxing until you feel tired

81%

of respondents reported receiving six or more hours sleep each night