THIS is the first part of my series on sleep. Today, I would like to dive into the importance of sleep. My interest in sleep and the circadian rhythm was piqued when a client of ours gave us Satchin Panda’s book on the Circadian Code. Panda’s contention is that one is in the pink of health when he is attuned and is in sync with his biological or circadian rhythm—that means eating and sleeping according to a specific biological clock.

This “timing,” if you wish, is essential for good health.

Why is sleep so important for our health?

1. Sleep is when the body regenerates.

2. Sleep is when our body heals itself.

3. Sleep is essential for our rest.

4. Sleep is when the brain learns and reinforces the synthesis of new information.

5. Sleep helps us become more alert and productive.

Studies also show that constant sleep disruption affects our health negatively and is a cause for weight gain.

In a study, one group of mice experienced sleep disturbance, while another group were made to sleep according to their circadian rhythm. Both mice groups consumed the same number of calories. After a period of time, after checking their body weight, the group who experienced sleep disturbances had more fat than the group that slept according to the biological clock. Poor sleep makes us fat.

Sleep disturbance is even more common now with the advent of technology, and with the work of our friends in BPO (business process outsourcing) centers. People sleep less nowadays and there is much more light pollution in our neighborhoods. Next week, I will discuss strategies as to how you can improve your sleep.