Is Lack of Sleep the New Smoking?

More than a third of American adults are not getting enough sleep on a regular basis. Study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

Is sleep deprivation the new smoking? Years ago, we had evidence about the diseases caused by smoking but the public blithely smoked on. Later, after diligent stop smoking campaigns, the public generally woke up. The same can be said of sleep today. The research is in. During sleep, the fluid-filled ventricles of the brain open so deadly toxins, including the plaques the cause Alzheimer’s disease, can drain. In addition, adequate sleep strengthens the immune system and helps protect us from cancer. Plus—we’ve all experienced the productivity and behavioral bonuses that come with good sleep.

Sleep isn’t a “waste of time.” It’s a significant player in the scheme of healthy living. When we know better, we do better.

Affirmation: I get adequate sleep.

Coaching questions: Are you pushing the evidence aside and convincing yourself that you’re fine with less sleep? What is it costing you? Are you willing to take the risk?