Have you ever felt older than your actual age? Perhaps you've experienced days when you feel more like a seasoned elder than a sprightly individual. Surprisingly, the culprit behind this sensation might be your sleep patterns.
Recent research has shed light on the connection between sleep and our perception of age. Two studies, led by sleep researcher Leonie Balter from Stockholm University, reveal that inadequate sleep can significantly influence how old we feel. These studies were published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B.
- Back-to-Back Nights of Poor Sleep: The first study involved analyzing the sleep patterns of 429 individuals aged 18 to 70. For each night of poor sleep during the previous month, participants reported feeling approximately a quarter of a year older than their chronological age. Mood alterations and feelings of fatigue also contributed to this subjective sense of aging. In contrast, those who consistently slept well felt nearly six years younger on average than their actual age.
- Severe Sleep Deprivation: The second study took 186 participants and had them sleep in a controlled lab environment for two nights. During this period, they received no more than four hours of sleep per night. The result? Participants felt significantly older. However, when they enjoyed consistent good sleep over the course of a month, they reported feeling rejuvenated and, on average, five years younger.
Sleepiness plays a pivotal role in our perception of age. When we lack energy and motivation due to insufficient sleep, we tend to feel older. Conversely, getting enough rest allows us to maintain a youthful subjective age, benefiting both mental and physical health.
Feeling younger than your actual age has been associated with various health benefits. Studies suggest that individuals who perceive themselves as younger tend to live longer, experience less depression, and exhibit positive traits such as optimism and resilience. Remarkably, their brains even show signs of youthfulness, with more gray matter and better cognitive performance.
So, if you're aiming to feel more like your vibrant self, prioritize quality sleep. Remember that a good night's rest isn't just about physical rest; it's an investment in your overall well-being. By consistently getting enough sleep, you can defy the clock and embrace a more youthful outlook on life.
SOURCE: The Guardian / New Scientist