Sleeping well directly affects your mental and physical health. Neglecting it can take a serious toll on your daytime energy, productivity, emotional balance, and even your weight

Benefits of Sleep

• Better assimilation and recall of information
• Makes us less stress reactive (restorative)
• Greater problem solving, creativity and sustained attention

Optimising your Sleep (Sleep Hygiene)

• Keep sleep and wake times regular (7-9hrs) and in sync with your bodies natural sleep-wake cycle
• Stop studying at least an hour before sleep
• Develop a bedtime routine (wash face, read, do a relaxation technique or some stretches).
• Avoid use of phones and other screens for an hour before bedtime
• Exercise during the day as this will aid sleep
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine or large meals in the evening
• Have a quiet, comfortable and cool sleeping environment
• [Source: (The National Sleep Foundation, 2015; Vandekerckhove & Cluydts, 2010) [LifeMatters study and exams presentation] and Helpguide.org]

Check out the HelpGuide.org guide on sleeping better for a comprehensive look at sleeping better.