We hear of workaholics who are
often sacrificing their health to achieve the overscheduled modern
lifestyle.
But we seldom hear about those at the other end of the spectrum who
sleep well beyond the recommended seven to eight hours a night.
Some studies have found that sleeping nine hours or more a night may
have a negative impact on health. However, the evidence is not nearly as
clear as data showing that too little sleep (four to five hours) can
lead to illness, accidents, and lowered productivity. We do know that
depression can manifest itself through both insomnia and low energy
levels leading to extended periods of sleep.
So
is it possible to sleep too much? How can you develop healthy sleep
habits? Here are some tips.
Don't use sleep to escape
Sometimes when you feel overwhelmed, you may become a bit of a possum
- curling up and falling asleep when threatened. While this isn't a
particularly destructive way to escape uncomfortable emotions, it also
isn't an indicator of being able to deal with them. If you are a "possum
sleeper," try to sit through a period of discomfort using a different
behaviour, such as exercise, to lessen anxiety.
Don't overdo the napping
Naps have got a bad rap in many people, but there has been a trend
over the past few years to embrace the power nap (a fifteen- or
twenty-minute refresher in the afternoon). Numerous studies have shown
that these short naps are in fact an excellent way to sustain our energy
and focus throughout the day. However, a power nap can easily turn into
a two-hour deep sleep for some of us. This amount of sleep in the
afternoon will leave you feeling groggy and likely to disrupt your sleep
pattern at night.
Don't make sleep the weekend reward
Those of us with busy work schedules often drive ourselves to long
sleeps on the weekend. You shouldn't feel guilty about this, but I
wonder if this behaviour falls into the same pattern as overeating on
the weekend and then starving yourself during the week. A consistent
level of sleep throughout the week seems like a healthier option.
Don't get bored
If I don't know what to do with myself, I will often feel tired and
sleep more than I think is necessary. The reality is that there is
always something to do if we want to seek out activities, such as
exercising or volunteering. Keep busy and you will feel less tired. Good
health is usually dependent upon moderation, and it seems, sleep is no
exception.
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