“You can sleep when you’re dead.”

Words often uttered by people who party a lot or believe that burning the midnight oil to get things done is the only way to be successful.

Well not quite. You are very much alive when asleep. The body uses this time to perform processes  that support your health and helps enhance the quality of life.

memory consolidation, release of hormones for growth and repair, rest/relaxation, boost to immune system function

A chronic lack of adequate sleep can also be a risk factor for certain health issues (eg. cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes). I used to underestimate the importance of sleep but now I appreciate the effects of a good night’s sleep and I do like my naps.

So sleep while you’re alive!