Can You Get Too Much Sleep

Researchers have not come up with a definitive number of hours of sleep a person needs. This is because there are too many variable which can influence this number. However, all agree that too little or too much sleep can have negative consequences.

There are some simple steps that anyone can follow to help them to regain a normal sleeping pattern.

There may be underlying causes for a person sleeping excessively. Some people may not even think that there is a problem. A person may occasionally need some extra rest for a few nights if they have experienced what is referred to as sleep debt, which is when that person may not have got enough sleep for a period of time. But except for that, sleeping too much has been associated with increased morbidity and mortality rates which makes it a serious matter that needs attention.

In order to establish good sleeping patterns, it is vital to create good routines that will lead body and mind to recognize sleep time. This begins by creating a plan. A generalized plan for each day is a good place to begin. Then, specific tasks for individual days can be added in. By having a structured time for meals and other routine activities, it begins to create a groove in the mind of how the events of the day should unfold.

Using a friendly alarm tone set at the same time, every day of the week will help you to wake up and avoid sleeping too long. If the alarm is annoying or unpleasant, you may just shut it off and go back to sleep angry. Setting the clock at the same time, even on days off, helps to establish a rhythm.

Creating a morning routine that begins upon waking will help to establish the switch from sleep time to awake time. This routine may include a shower, beverage, or a walk around the block. The point is to create the same pattern each day immediately upon waking.

Some people may not have healthy sleep patterns due to alcohol or other drugs. The only solution in this case is to minimize or, preferably, eliminate the toxic substances. Over time, excessive drug use can create many other problems.

Exercising during the earlier part of the day can also be helpful. Getting the blood flowing soon after you rise, has a positive effect on your overall health and your state of mind. However, it should be avoided in the four hours prior to bedtime. Otherwise, the body may still be too stimulated to go to sleep.

Additionally, beverages and heavy meals should not be consumed during the hours prior to sleep. If the body energy is focused on digestion, sleep may not be as restful.

If you or someone you love seems to be needing too much sleep, it is important to fix this with lifestyle changes. Improving your diet and eliminating harmful behaviors can help tremendously. Establishing a daily routine and avoiding toxic substances are both beneficial. Getting more exercise can help help you to regain normal sleep pattern and will also improve your overall health and well-being.