AN expert has revealed exactly how long it takes for a lack of quality sleep time can become dangerous for your health.
With the festive party season well and truly underway the period between Christmas and New Year can become something of a blur as people frequently party into the early hours and often don’t get enough sleep.
Getty – ContributorPartying into the early hours and increasing the amount of alcohol you drink can impact on the quality sleep you get[/caption]
Often going hand-in-hand with partying is increased alcohol consumption which can also have a big impact on the amount of quality sleep you get.
Experts say a lack of sleep can become “dangerous” and unhealthy so they advise to put your health first before overdoing things.
The amount of sleep you to ensure your body is well rested is, surprisingly, a lot more than you may think.
Penny Albright, the founder of Easy Sleep Guide, said that getting less than seven hours of sleep a night over a two-week period is considered “dangerous”.
She told The Mirror: “Getting less than seven hours sleep a night over a prolonged period (sometimes as little as two weeks) can become dangerous.
“So, whilst the Christmas parties look tempting, don’t overdo it and maybe have a day off here and there to recharge and catch up on lost sleep”
Penny added: “My recommendation is to go out, let your hair down but make sure you put your last glass down around four hours before sleep.
“If you don’t do this, the brain and body don’t have enough time to settle down and unwind into a deep sleep.”
Niraj Naik, a holistic health expert and founder of Soma Breath, revealed the various warning signs you need to be aware of when your body is telling you when more rest is needed and ignoring them could do harm to your body.
She told the news outlet: “Everyone needs different amounts of sleep. Generally, you know if you need more sleep if you are feeling irritable, lethargic, brain fog, slow cognitive function, or craving sugary drinks – look out for these symptoms and if they go on for more than three-four days in a row, you are causing harm to the body.
“The best way to deal with them is to sleep, and not resort to caffeine or energy drinks.”
Niraj also gave her top tips people can do to encourage a peaceful night’s rest, if you think you’re not getting enough shut-eye.
She said: “If you feel that you are struggling to fall asleep after partying, you can use these exercises to help you fall asleep with greater ease and to have a deep and restful night’s sleep.
“Sit comfortably in an upright position with your back straight. Take a quick inhalation through your nose.
“Purse your lips and gently breathe the air out of your mouth very slowly as though you are breathing out through a straw. Do not tense your muscles while doing this – be as relaxed as possible.
“As you exhale, imagine a wave of relaxation flowing down your body from top to bottom.
Niraj added: “Repeat the process several times for around five-ten minutes a day. The longer the duration, the more effective it is for lowering your blood pressure and heart rate.
“You can also hold your breath for a few seconds before repeating the next round, gradually increasing the breath hold time each time you repeat for an even deeper effect.”
GettyExperts say getting less than seven hours of sleep a night over a two-week period is considered ‘dangerous’[/caption] Read More