We’ve all heard of mindfulness by now, from traditional Buddhist meditation practices to 21st-century trends like breathing apps and even retreats. And while we’re all for jet-setting to Bali for a mindset reset, so much of our mental health is dependent on how many Zs we’re getting in a night. The best part? Solid sleep is the one trend you don’t need to spend on in 2020.
Sleep and happiness are BFFs
It doesn’t take a scientist to tell you that you’re generally happier when you’re well-rested. But if you want the science, this is it: Sleep deprivation increases activity in the amygdala. And what’s the amygdala, you ask? It’s the part of the brain that influences emotions like anger and rage (yikes!) No wonder we all feel a little more irritable when we’re short on sleep. Our patience goes down, our reactivity goes up, and we’re primed for negativity—but that’s only the beginning.
Sleep deprivation means we’re more likely to feel negative emotions, but even positive experiences may feel neutral or even negative. It’s like we’re wearing a pair of rose-coloured glasses, but it’s tainting everything dark and dismal.
The flip side, of course, is that when we’re well-rested, we’re all-around more empathetic and friendlier to others. We actually feel the benefits of a positive experience. And if our experience that day is negative? We’re more inclined to see the silver lining. But don’t take it from us: Researchers Daniel Kahneman and Alan B. Krueger found that there is a direct correlation between sleep quality and overall happiness.
Happiness is just the beginning
Of course, happiness isn’t universal. Some of us suffer from clinical depression and anxiety, and our relationship with happiness isn’t as straightforward. However, sleep’s relationship to depression is becoming clearer: Poor sleep (insomnia, in particular) can be a precursor to mental health issues. And in those who are already struggling with mental health issues, poor sleep can make symptoms worse. The good news is that good sleep can make symptoms better. In fact, treating sleep disorders can often alleviate symptoms of mental illness, too. It’s a win-win.
This is your year
If you’re suffering from poor sleep going into 2020, this is your year. Support your mental health on every level: Be mindful and be well-rested. In fact, being well-rested will help you be more mindful! And if you don’t know where to start, that’s why we’re here. We can help you get to the bottom of poor sleep with a free at-home sleep study. Book online, or call a Sleep Therapeutics clinic near you.