You might not realise it, but we spend a third of our lives in bed. Sleeping well and long enough recharges you physically and mentally, and this is vital to being able to function optimally while working, studying, spending time with your family or pursuing recreational activities. How long people can go without sleep is not known for certain. What is known, however, is that people who suffer from lack of sleep have trouble concentrating and remembering things. It is also apparent that chronic sleep deficiency can lead to decreased serotonin sensitivity. Serotonin is a substance that transmits signals to the brain. It is involved with mood, sleep, emotion, sexual activity and hunger and gives feelings of satisfaction and happiness. Recent studies have suggested that lack of sleep can not only lead to depression, but can also contribute to obesity and diabetes.

Listen to your own body. If you feel like you function well even with less sleep, then don’t be concerned if you don’t sleep the full eight hours. Also try to sleep your optimum number of hours every night. Catching up on weekends is not as good for you.