Sleep isn’t just something you squeeze in when everything else is doneđ
A few months ago, I used to be a night owl. I could stay very late into the night.One time I even slept at 5 am. Can you imagine that?
Well, it had become a routine ever since I became a freelance writer.
But at some point, I started gaining weight, and my skin became frail despite me adding weight.
Also, I easily got flu-like symptoms, which made me rethink my sleeping decisions. I decided to start sleeping early. But it was hard to form the habit.
Everything changed when I read The Sleep Book by Dr. Guy on Amazon Kindle. His unique five-week plan rewired my brain to sleep early.
And, my health got so much better in many ways.
So, in this article, I will share the benefits I gained when I started sleeping early and enough.
Keep reading.
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Here are some of he benefits I gained once I formed an habit of sleeping early and enough.
1. Improves Memory and Cognitive Function
When I started getting enough sleep, one of the first things I noticed was how much sharper my mind felt.
Before, I was constantly struggling to remember little things—whether it was a task I needed to complete or something I’d read the day before.
But once I committed to a full night’s sleep, everything seemed to click into place. I could focus more easily, and my memory improved.
I even found myself recalling details of conversations I had forgotten before. That’s because, during sleep, our brains process and store information.
Imagine how much I missed out on when I was up until 5 am! Now, when I sleep well, I wake up with mental clarity and the ability to focus on my writing tasks, which has helped me produce better content and be more productive overall.
2. Boosts Immune System
It wasn’t just my mind that benefited from more sleep. My body felt stronger too.
Before adjusting my sleep schedule, I’d catch colds frequently, and even a small flu would knock me out for days.
After improving my sleep habits, I noticed that I stopped getting sick as often. My immune system had become more robust.
I read that sleep gives the body time to repair and build its defenses, which explains why I wasn’t as vulnerable to illnesses anymore.
Now, I rarely get sick, even when I’m around others who are. It’s amazing how much of a difference proper rest can make.
It felt like my body had built an invisible shield around me just from giving it enough time to recover each night.
3. Enhances Mood and Emotional Stability
Before I changed my sleep habits, I was moody and irritable. Little things would set me off, and I’d often feel down for no apparent reason.
But after I started getting more sleep, I realized how much it helped stabilize my emotions.
I no longer felt so irritable in the mornings, and even on stressful days, I could handle things with a clearer mind and a more positive attitude.
It’s like my emotional reset button finally started working properly. Now, when challenges arise, I feel more grounded, and I can approach them with a sense of calm.
A good night’s sleep has truly helped me maintain a better, more stable mood, which has improved my relationships with others as well.
4. Supports Weight Management
I noticed that when I started sleeping more, my eating habits changed naturally.
Before, I would snack late at night, which, combined with little exercise, caused me to gain weight. I had no control over my cravings.
After improving my sleep, I found that I wasn’t as hungry at odd hours anymore. I learned that sleep regulates hormones that control hunger, and it made perfect sense why I felt less need to overeat.
As I started eating better and sleeping enough, I shed a few pounds without even trying too hard.
My body finally had a chance to rest and function properly, which helped me manage my weight more effectively.
It was a relief to see how small changes like getting proper rest could lead to such visible results.
5. Increases Energy Levels
One of the most immediate benefits I experienced was a surge in energy. Before, waking up felt like a battle, and I would drag myself through the day feeling sluggish. But after making a commitment to better sleep, I started waking up feeling refreshed and energized.
No more relying on caffeine just to get through the day! I had the energy to tackle my work, go for a walk, and even fit in some exercise.
This increased energy made me more productive, and I stopped feeling like I was constantly behind on everything.
It felt like I finally had the fuel I needed to keep going throughout the day without feeling exhausted.
6. Improves Heart Health
As I did more research on sleep, I learned that getting enough rest also supports heart health.
I used to have irregular blood pressure readings, and I didn’t think much of it. But after getting on a proper sleep schedule, I noticed that my readings became more stable.
Sleep allows your cardiovascular system to rest, and it can lower blood pressure, which reduces the risk of heart disease.
It gave me peace of mind knowing that not only was I feeling better mentally and physically, but I was also protecting my heart for the long run. I’ve made sleep a priority now, knowing how much it impacts my overall well-being.
7. Enhances Physical Performance
I also saw improvements in my physical abilities. Even though I’m not an athlete, I noticed that my body felt more capable of handling physical tasks.
Simple things like going for a walk or doing yoga became easier, and I didn’t feel as tired afterward.
That’s because sleep helps muscles recover and strengthens the body. I could stretch deeper, move more freely, and overall felt more in tune with my body.
Before, my energy would crash mid-day, and even small activities felt exhausting. Now, I enjoy staying active, and I’ve even noticed a slight improvement in my stamina and strength.
8. Boosts Creativity and Problem-solving
As a freelance writer, creativity is my bread and butter. Before I fixed my sleep habits, there were days when I’d sit in front of my laptop for hours, and nothing would come out. It felt like my creativity had dried up.
But once I started getting enough rest, I saw a huge difference in my creative flow. I’d wake up with fresh ideas and new perspectives, and even problem-solving became easier.
It’s amazing how much more creative I felt just by allowing my brain the time it needed to recharge.
Now, I feel inspired more often, and writing has become an enjoyable process again.
9. Improves Relationships
Finally, one of the most unexpected benefits of better sleep was how it improved my relationships.
Before, I’d be so tired that I had no patience for others, and conversations felt like a chore.
But once I started sleeping enough, I had more emotional bandwidth to engage with people.
I found myself being a better listener, more present, and less irritable. My family and friends even commented on how much calmer and more patient I seemed.
It’s amazing how something as simple as sleep can have such a positive impact on your interactions with others.
Now, I feel more connected in my relationships, and I’m able to show up for the people I care about with a positive attitude.
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Final Thoughts
This journey has taught me that sleep isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. All these benefits have made a huge difference in my life, and I’m never going back to those 5 am nights!
If you’re struggling with any of the things I used to—poor memory, low energy, weight gain, mood swings, or constant illnesses—I encourage you to take a step back and evaluate your sleep habits.
Getting enough rest might just be the key to unlocking a happier, healthier version of yourself. For me, it was a game changer, and I believe it can be for you too.
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