Benefits Bulletin

Understanding Your Sleep Needs

By EPIC

Do you know why sleep is important? It allows our bodies to function and heal. It also:

• Helps strengthen brain function and reduce memory loss later in life

• Improves cholesterol and triglyceride levels

• Releases stress-relief hormones (melatonin and serotonin)

• Cultivates a healthy and creative imagination        

Getting enough sleep is also good for business.

Employees who get a healthy amount of sleep are more productive and efficient at work. 

Get some shut eye!

Follow these steps to get the right amount of sleep each night:

1. Track your sleep: Keep a journal of when you go to bed and wake up. You may also use a wearable device that reports your sleep patterns.

2. Log off: Half an hour before you wish to go to sleep, turn off all lights and electronics that cause over stimulation.

3. Stick to a routine: Going to sleep and waking up around the same time each day (including weekends) can help regulate your body’s internal clock.

4. Avoid caffeine and nicotine before bedtime: Caffeine and nicotine are both stimulants that can keep you awake.

5. Keep temperatures cool: For optimal sleep, keep the temperature between 60 and 67 degrees to help the natural cool down process.