“To sleep, perchance to dream.” – William Shakespeare

This is the celebrated soliloquy of Prince Hamlet the Shakespearean play, Hamlet. Do you remember the most famous line in that celebrated play: “To be or not to be.”

In the realm of health, I might add “To be or not to be” well, one must “sleep, perchance to dream.”

Sleep works

During sleep, the body works to support healthy brain function. It also maintains your physical health.

Why is getting enough good sleep important?

• Stronger Immune System. This means you get sick less often.

• Maintenance of a healthy weight

• Stress reduction

• Mood improvement

• Reduction of body aches and pains

• Better complexion

• Increased vitality

• Anti-aging benefits

Consequences of sleep deprivation

There are ailments linked to sleep deprivation such as:

• High blood pressure

• Heart disease

• Kidney disease

• Stroke

• Depression

• Obesity

• Fatigue/exhaustion

• Brain fog

• Mood disorders

• Mental challenges like depression

• Advanced aging

Better sleep tips

They have been said before, but it bears repeating.

Stick to a regular schedule every night. If bedtime is 10 p.m., then stick to it.

Detox your bedroom of clutter. Nobody can sleep in an over-crowded untidy room.

Avoid eating heavy meals at night. It is not advisable to go to bed when your stomach is full. However, you should not go to bed hungry either.

Have regular exercises every day.

Cleanse your mind of heavy, depressing thoughts.

Repeat this affirmation just before sleeping:

“I choose to fill my heart with grace and my mind with joyful expectations. Tonight, I will dream of immeasurable happiness.”

Love and Light!