Ayurveda advocates Sleep as one of the pillars for a healthy life. Along with a balanced diet, and good physical activity; sleep is vital for physical and mental well-being. Sleep provides the body a chance to rest and repair the body. Children who sleep well tend to be more creative, better problem-solvers, and positive thinkers. They are more energized during the day and curious about learning newer things.
It is a proven fact that kids who get sufficient amount of sleep have better cognitive abilities like attention, behavior, learning, memory, and overall mental and physical health. However, lack of sleep makes children irritable and stressed out; causing forgetfulness and learning difficulties. Poor sleep is also linked to weight gain and hormonal disturbances. Poor sleep hampers body metabolism contributing to metabolic disorders such as Diabetes, stroke etc. It also affects the ability to interact and process emotional information socially. Therefore cultivating a regular bedtime routine is necessary for kids for optimal overall development.
Regular physical activity of about 30 minutes a day helps children attain early bedtime and early rising schedule by ensuring a peaceful sleep with fewer wake-ups in the night. A sound sleep at night makes the kids more energized for performing various activities throughout the day. Right from being attentive in class to enhanced athletic performance, from improved protein absorption and assimilation to hormonal balance, the kids achieve everything after a quality sleep at night.
The most restorative phase is the time spent in deep sleep, which is increased by regular exercise. This phase boosts immune functions and allows the brain and muscle cells to revive completely. Regular physical activity causes a reduction in the level of stress and relieves anxiety, which is one of the common causes of sleep disturbances.
Aerobic exercises, the one which causes an increase in respiratory and heart rate; such as running, swimming, cycling are the best for combating sleeplessness. A morning session of exercise releases endorphins that keep us energized throughout the day and ensures a good night sleep. Calming down tasks such as recuperative yoga and breathing exercises at night before going to bed, promote restful sleep.
Higher the activity throughout the day, the more likely we are to fall asleep well and relax. Moderate intensity activities like running, walking, swimming, cycling done at a steady pace, preferably in the mornings or afternoons are the best form of exercise and assure sound sleep.
Proper physical activity, balanced diet, and sound sleep ensure health and well-being.
