Do you often feel tired during the day? Just need a “cat nap” to get through the rest of your day? You may be sleep deprived.
Not only does sleep affect your physical health, but it can also have a negative impact on your mental health. If you are not getting good quality sleep, your brain cannot clear the toxins that it accumulates over time. Think of a dishwasher. You load it before you go to bed and turn it on, so when you wake up in the morning you will have clean dishes. Your brain, much like the dishwasher is washing itself overnight clearing toxins, and the only way it can do that is with good-quality sleep.
How do you know if you are sleep deprived? Some of the signs of sleep deprivation include memory issues, weight gain or inability to lose weight, a weakened immune system, balance and coordination issues, trouble concentrating, low energy, and high blood pressure.
Some things that can affect your sleep quality: mouth breathing, snoring, TMJ or jaw clenching, drinking alcohol before bed, eating to close to bedtime, screen time before bed, and long naps (more than 20 minutes).
If you think you might be struggling with sleep deprivation or just not getting the quality of sleep you desire, give us a call. The team at Kemper Cognitive Wellness is here to help you get the quality sleep your body and brain need. 216-337-1400.
-Alison Connors, Certified Brain Health Trainer, FMCHC, NBC-HWC
