Sleepy's use independent contractors for delivery services to our customers and during this time we want to support these small business owners and our customers to ensure safety for all. This may mean some interruptions to our normal delivery service and Free Old Mattress Removal which will be based on advice obtained from the Australian Government and the precautionary measures our delivery contractors determine necessary. If you are purchasing in one of our Sleepy’s showrooms or online, our staff will confirm the current status and keep you updated until your order has been delivered. If you are unable to accept the delivery due to illness or quarantine, you can arrange an alternative delivery time with the store. We are committed to continuing Sleepy’s amazing customer experience from the start of your mattress selection through to post purchase, delivery and beyond.
Read More
Call us today! 1300 722 718
Unleash the Power of Exercise: Protecting Your Mind Requires Sufficient Sleep
Read More
Unleash the Power of Exercise: Protecting Your Mind Requires Sufficient Sleep
July 27th, 2023
Reading time: 4 mins
Dementia is a growing concern in our aging population, and finding ways to prevent or delay its onset is crucial. Recent research conducted by a team from UCL (University College London) has shed light on an interesting link between exercise, sleep, and cognitive health. While exercise has long been touted as beneficial for maintaining cognitive function, this study emphasises the critical role that sufficient sleep plays in reaping the full benefits of physical activity. Let’s delve into the findings and explore why sleep should be considered a key factor in our cognitive health equation.
The Importance of Sleep for Cognitive Function: The study followed 9,000 individuals aged 50 and above for a decade, assessing their cognitive performance through various tests. The results revealed that participants who consistently obtained between six and eight hours of sleep fared better on cognitive tests, especially when combined with regular physical activity. However, the picture changed drastically for individuals in their fifties and sixties who engaged in intense exercise but slept less than six hours per night. They experienced a rapid decline in cognitive functions – such as attention, memory and learning –, highlighting the crucial role of sleep in cognitive health.
Exercise Alone Isn’t Enough: While physical activity is widely recognised for its positive impact on cognitive function, this study highlights the need to consider sleep as an equally important factor. The World Health Organization already acknowledges the benefits of exercise for cognitive health, but this research suggests that interventions should also address sleep habits to maximise long-term cognitive benefits. The study further revealed that for those over 70, the cognitive benefits of exercise persisted even without sufficient sleep. However, for middle-aged adults, sleep played a crucial role in counteracting the long-term effects of exercise on cognitive decline.
Understanding the Link: The researchers emphasised that sufficient sleep appears to be necessary to fully realise the cognitive benefits of physical activity. The study’s lead author, Dr Mikaela Bloomberg, highlighted the importance of considering sleep and physical activity together when aiming to preserve cognitive health. Previous studies often focused on one aspect without accounting for the other, but this research demonstrates the need to recognise the dynamic relationship between sleep and exercise in shaping cognitive outcomes.
As our understanding of cognitive health evolves, it becomes clear that exercise alone is not the sole answer to preventing dementia. Sleep, an essential component of our daily lives, has a profound impact on cognitive function. By prioritising both exercise and quality sleep, we can maximise the protective effects on our cognitive health. This study serves as a valuable reminder that a holistic approach, considering the interplay between physical activity and sleep, is key to promoting cognitive well-being and potentially delaying the onset of dementia.
Remember, the path to a sharper mind lies in the harmonious combination of exercise and quality sleep.