From Our Chairman: The Science Behind Sleep

From Our Chairman: The Science Behind Sleep

As you may be well familiar, here at Juvenescence, we focus on developing modalities to promote longevity and health. My ongoing research and regular personal reading tend to revolve around topics of wellness and prevention. Lately, I’ve been exploring sleep in all its mysteries and wonder.

 

 What's Commonly Said vs. What Science Says

LET GO OF EXPECTATIONS

Let go of the expectation that you need 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep. Your sleep, just like other aspects of you, is unique to you.

 

 

FALLING BACK TO SLEEP

If you awaken in the middle of the night and don’t fall right back asleep, science shows you can still uphold your sleep quality. Try a relaxing activity such as reading in low light or listening to soft music. Return to bed when you are ready. Be sure not to turn on anything that has blue light—including laptop, cell phone, or television.

 

HABITS TO IMPROVE SLEEP

Practicing overall wellness habits will, over time, contribute to your best sleep. Exercising more and eating healthy foods, paired with reducing stress, caffeine, and alcohol intake, will improve sleep.

 

Uphold a routine sleep schedule (especially the time you wake up), limit exposure to light at night, and do not exercise right before going to bed.

Closing Thought

Sleep changes over time as we age. Choose not to stress over aiming for your best sleep ever. Instead, opt to live out healthy habits and notice how your sleep benefits.

 

Dr. Greg Bailey, MD
CHAIRMAN & CO-FOUNDER