Sleep is the natural state of rest and rejuvenation. A good sleep is very essential for the Brain, immune and nervous system. How much sleep an individual requires depends on many factors like age of the person, activities of the individual, medical history and quality of sleep etc.

Sleeping Requirements for Individuals

Infants – 16 hrs

Children (6– 3 years) - 10 to14 hrs

Children (3 – 6 years) - 10 to 12 hrs

Children (6 - 9 years) - 10 hrs

Children (9 – 12 years) - 9 hrs

Teenagers – 9 hrs

Adults – 7 to 8 hrs

If you are sleeping lesser than stated above then probably you are suffering from the effects of sleep deprivation likedaytime drowsiness, trouble in concentrating, irritability, clumsiness etc. Many times Sleep deprivation can lead to dangerous situations like accidents, not only to you but others, since it affects motor skills like driving. Regular sleep deprivation may also contribute to increased risk for obesity, diabetes and heart diseases. Some common sleeping problems or disorders seen widely are insomnia, Sleep apnea and Narcolepsy. If you are sleeping less than the prescribed time or sleeping more then you may have to visit a Doctor.

Some Factors which may prevent an individual from having a Sound Sleep could be Body Pains, Fatigue, Over eating or taking food just prior to going to bed, Acidity, Tension and Anxiety etc. Once the factors of sleeplessness are identified and proper steps taken to treat the problem one may be able to enjoy a sound sleep. Proper sleep is essential for the proper functioning of our body.

Here are some Tips for good sleep

• Never work in a stretch during day hours. Take small breaks in between. Also walk around and stretch your arms and legs.
• Taking dinner before 8 at night.
• Sleeping early (at least at 10 in the night)
• Do not sleep immediately after having food.
• Don’t make your Bedroom a Workroom or a place to watch TV.
• An ideal sleeping environment should be cool, comfortable, quiet and dark.
• Avoid taking caffeine, alcohol etc at least 3-4 hours prior to sleep.
• Reading can help in sleeping
  
• Avoid exercising 3-4 hours before sleep.
• Do not nap during the day time.
• Activities such as closing eyes and listening to calming and relaxing music, reading or taking a bath can help you unwind and thereby have a good sleep.

To cut short, remember that our body needs proper rest and rejuvenation for the smooth functioning of our body and to stay healthy which is provided by sleep. Even machines require rest, isn’t it? If you have trouble in sleeping do not ignore it, take help. Ayurveda treatment is very effective for sleep of sleep disorders.