In this article, we reveal centenarian secrets to longevity, including eating habits, daily activity, and more. Dr. Seema Bonney, founder of the Anti-Aging & Longevity Center of Philadelphia, adds a crucial element to the mix: “If there’s any one positive thing we can do in terms of slowing down the aging process, sleep is really up there.”
While we generally think of sleep as a passive activity, it actually creates a biological symphony within our bodies. Our brains eliminate aberrant proteins while we sleep, hormones necessary for development and repair are released, and our immune systems prepare for defense. Recent research has even identified sleep as a critical component in heart health, stressing its importance to general well-being.
Sleep’s importance in immunity
Dr. Bonney stresses the intricate link between sleep and immunity: “Optimization of sleep and sleep hygiene is really vital to keeping your immune system healthy.” Countless studies have demonstrated the enormous impact of sleep on our ability to fight diseases, confirming its importance in the quest for longevity.
Beyond the Zzz’s
It turns out that sleep is more than just lovely dreams. Dr. Bonney explains the several advantages of getting a good night’s sleep. It can, over time, support things like weight maintenance, blood sugar control, and cognitive function. This nocturnal magic expands its scope, providing a comprehensive approach to well-being.
Despite accumulating evidence, many people continue to underestimate the importance of sleep. Dr. Bonney encounters this attitude frequently: “I hear so many people say things like, ‘I’ll sleep when I’m dead.’ And the truth is, you will be dead sooner if you don’t sleep.”
Creating your sleep sanctuary
Recognizing that sleep needs vary, the optimal time for excellent sleep is between seven and nine hours per night. However, it is not only about the quantity. Dr. Bonney emphasizes the need for consistent sleep schedules, indicating that long-lived persons frequently follow precise sleep-wake rhythms.
The art of prioritizing sleep
When the goal is to live a longer, healthier life, putting sleep first becomes an art. Dr. Bonney recommends electronic curfews, adjusting the sleep environment, and researching sleep-promoting substances. The key is progress, not perfection, and it’s never too late to begin your journey to improved sleep.
Dr. Bonney proposes additional strategies for longevity, recognizing that it is not simply determined by the amount of sleep one gets. The holistic approach to sleep includes limiting caffeine consumption, supporting gut health, and embracing sunlight during the day.
The restorative power of night
A good night’s sleep appears to be the key to a longer life. It’s not only how many hours you spend in bed; it’s also about how well and consistently you sleep. Dr. Bonney’s views serve as a reminder that prioritizing sleep is an investment in both short-term and long-term health. So, start your nightly rituals now for a longer, more rested life.
