There is a famous saying, “Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.” This statement is not just a rhyme; it holds a significant amount of truth.

Our ancestors followed this routine of early sleeping and waking up early, and it has been advisable by experts and physicians for ages now. By adopting an early-to-bed, early-to-rise pattern, we can ensure not only physical well-being, but it also beneficial for our mental health.

In this article, we will discuss the importance of this routine for our mental health and how one can adopt this beneficial practice.

What is Good Mental Health?

Before we discuss the importance of this routine for our mental health let’s first understand what is good mental health.

As per the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is defined as a state of well-being in which an individual can realize his/her potential, can cope with normal life stresses, can work efficiently, and can contribute to the community.

The Importance of Early to Bed

For good mental health, sleep plays a crucial role. During sleep, our body cells get repaired; the immune system strengthens, and our brain takes the time to consolidate the memories.

As per the National Sleep Foundation, adults need 7-9 hours of sleep, and anything less than 6 hours can lead to chronic health issues. Going to bed early ensures you get sufficient sleep, and your body recovers and refreshes correctly for the next day.

Related Article Get Enough Sleep to Boost Your Mental Health

The Importance of Early to Rise

Waking up early has numerous benefits for our mental health. It gives us extra time to prepare our day, and we do not need to rush. This calm start to the day helps in reducing stress and anxiety levels.

Early risers are known to be more proactive in managing their day, and they tend to get more done in the morning. Moreover, early morning sunlight is an excellent way to boost the serotonin levels in our body that helps fight depression and anxiety.

The Relation between Sleep and Mental Health

A good night’s sleep has a direct impact on our mental health as poor sleep or sleep deprivation can cause mood swings, increased anxiety levels, and even depression.

Studies have shown that insomniac individuals are more likely to suffer from depression. Inadequate sleep may lead to impaired cognitive performance and even lead to negative thoughts.

How to Adopt This Routine?

Changing your sleep pattern can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Here are some tips to help you in adopting the early-to-bed, early-to-rise routine:.

1. Gradually shift your sleeping time – Start by pushing your bedtime a few minutes earlier each night until you reach your desired sleep time.
2. Create a sleep-conducive environment – Dark, quiet, and cool sleep environment can help in sleeping faster.
3. Avoid screen time before bed – Avoid using mobile phones, laptops, or television before bed as the blue light interferes with the sleep cycle.
4. Stick to a routine – Try to sleep and wake at the same time each day, even on weekends.
5. Get adequate sunlight – Daylight exposure is essential for regulating our sleep-wake cycle.

Conclusion

Early to bed, early to rise schedule may sound like an old age practice, but it holds significant importance in our mental and physical well-being. Our ancestors followed this routine, and it worked well for them.

It’s high time we acknowledge the importance of sleep for a healthy brain and adopt this beneficial habit. Though it may take some time to adjust to an early sleeping habit, the benefits are worth it.