Everyone needs sleep, but its biological purpose remains a mystery. Sleep affects almost every type of tissue and system in the body—from the brain, heart, and lungs to metabolism, immune function, mood, and disease resistance. Research shows that a chronic lack of sleep, or getting poor quality sleep, increases the risk of health problems.1 For example, lack of sleep makes it harder to concentrate and respond quickly—in fact, quality sleep is as basic to life as nutritious food and clean water. Recent findings suggest that sleep plays a housekeeping role that removes toxins in the brain that build up while we are awake.2
How much sleep we need varies, depending on age, state of health, activity levels and even our genetic makeup! Scientists have identified several genes involved with sleep and sleep disorders. Several genetic models—including the worm, fruit fly, and zebrafish—are helping scientists to identify molecular mechanisms and genetic variants involved in normal sleep and sleep disorders. Additional research will provide a better understanding of inherited sleep patterns and risks of circadian and sleep disorders.3
All animals sleep naturally, according to their habitats, the need to protect themselves and their cohabitants, and based on their species’ biological needs. Human circadian rhythms help us sleep for extended periods at night in order to be active and alert the next day. This is known as monophasic sleep.
Polyphasic sleepers, on the other hand, tend to sleep in multiple periods throughout a 24-hour cycle. Polyphasic sleep is more common, as many animals need to maintain some level of vigilance against predators. For example, birds sleep with one eye open, which corresponds to the half of their brains that remain alert even during sleep. However, if threats are minimized, animals can enjoy monophasic sleep. Marmosets, for example, sleep in trees surrounded by their family, enabling them to feel more protected and experience monophasic sleep.4
Humans sleep selectively, whereas virtually all other species sleep based on their natural rhythms of being diurnal or nocturnal creatures. When humans pay attention to our bodies’ natural response to daylight and darkness, we are in essence, participants in biomimicry.
To celebrate the wonder of sleep, Nikken is offering 20% off our sleep products (except for the Kenko PowerSleep Mask) throughout the month of October plus free ground shipping. The Makura Sleep Packs are already priced with a 10% discount, but we’re adding another 10%, so you still get 20% off plus free ground shipping. Our sleep products are inspired by nature and help you feel like you’re sleeping under the stars!
Active Wellness Blog 