News
If you don’t snooze, you lose
June 27, 2025
As I write this, I am tired. It may be the large sandwich I had for lunch, or my early morning routine, or any variety of factors. One this is certain: sleep is often underrated but is just as vital as nutrition and exercise. No matter your age, quality sleep supports your body, mind, and emotional well-being. But the role it plays can vary throughout life.
Infants and children
In the early years, sleep fuels physical growth and brain development. Infants can sleep up to 16 hours a day, and it’s during this rest that their brains consolidate learning and their bodies release growth hormones. As anyone who takes care of kids certainly knows, adequate sleep improves attention, behavior, memory, and learning and sets the foundation for lifelong health.
Teens
Teenagers need about 8–10 hours of sleep a night, yet often get far less due to school demands, social life, and digital distractions. Sleep deprivation in teens can lead to mood swings, poor academic performance, and even increased risk of depression. Prioritizing rest helps teens manage stress, develop emotionally, and stay physically healthy.
Adults
For adults, 7–9 hours of sleep is ideal. Sleep strengthens the immune system, sharpens cognitive function, and helps regulate appetite and metabolism. Chronic sleep deprivation is linked to serious conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and anxiety. Quality sleep also supports productivity, creativity, and emotional resilience.
Older adults
Sleep patterns often change with age, but the need for rest doesn’t diminish. Older adults may experience lighter, fragmented sleep, so maintaining a consistent sleep routine remains crucial. Good sleep helps combat age-related cognitive decline and boosts immune health, improving quality of life.
Bottom line
Sleep is not a luxury but rather a key health consideration at every stage of life. As a culture, we need to limit our exposure to digital devices as we near bedtime and find methods to ease ourselves into rest. Prioritize it, protect it, and your body and mind will thank you. Whether you’re growing, learning, working, or simply living, consistent, restful sleep is your greatest ally.
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