Nature's Fountain Of Youth by Darlene Zagata Sleep is a necessary requirement in maintaining proper health. Without adequate sleep our bodies and minds do not function to the best of their ability. Some people may be able to function on less sleep than others but the fact remains that we all need a certain amount of sleep on a regular basis in order to maintain optimum health. Lack of sleep does not only affect our physical health, but our mental and emotional health as well. The mind does not function as clearly when it sleep is lacking.
Reflexes are slower than usual and motor skills are impaired.
Short-term memory suffers dramatically from inadequate rest. Our emotional state becomes indifferent as we begin to have mood swings and many may suffer from depression. When a person is not getting a sufficient amount of sleep, even the most patient type of person may begin to exhibit characteristics such as impatience and irritability. As you can see, adequate sleep is necessary for total wellness. Although maintaining health is the main and most important reason for getting enough sleep, it is not the only one.