Catch some ZZZZ and get your Beauty Sleep!

This might seem like a topic that is obvious to most people, but I think it’s also often overlooked. We all know getting a good nights sleep will refresh your mind and body, but what about your skin?

In the past, I’ve been guilty of sacrificing sleep to go out or finish a project and so often that I’d only get a few hours of sleep each night. I know many people are okay with this amount of sleep, but I’m not one of them. I really pay for it the next day and notice an immediate effect on my skin. It looks sallow, dehydrated and the wrinkles are more pronounced.

Sleep is necessary for our bodies to build up energy reserves and regenerate body cells and tissues. It helps the body metabolize free radicals, which are thought to accelerate aging and cancerous growths. Other complications from sleep deprivation include weight gain, premature aging, fatigue, chronic memory loss and increased risk for diabetes, infection, cardiovascular disease and gastrointestinal disease.

Short term sleep deprivation causes little physical harm, since the body compensates for the lack of sleep by increasing its adrenaline levels during the day. The body also attempts to get more sleep at a later time. Although a a temporary shift in attitude may occur, such as feelings of pessimism or negativity. A huge part of being successful is being in the right state of mind. If you’re tired and not feeling well, you won’t be at your best. Don’t neglect the importance of taking care of yourself. When your body and mind are taken care of, success in other areas of life won’t be far behind!