Why Prioritising Sleep is My Top New Year's Resolution

My New Year’s Resolutions:

1. Travel to one of my three top destinations (Jordan, Colombia, or Ladakh)
2. Be 10% more shameless – meaning, ask for what I want, and do more without dwelling over the cons or another person’s opinion
3. Train to run 5km without feeling like I need to sacrifice a lung in the process
4. Learn a new style of dance
5. Sleep better

“Sleep? Sleep better? You’re already sleep every night. What could you possibly do to ‘sleep better’, and why is it a resolution of all things?” is just an example of the kind of responses I’ve been receiving.

We often forget that sleep is a cornerstone of good health and wellness, and perhaps just as important as eating a balanced diet or doing regular exercise. With the knowledge that good sleep has the power to make or break your energy levels, productivity, focus and a plethora of physical and mental benefits, it strikes me as odd that a travel destination is more appreciated and valued as a resolution, than the prospect of taking care of oneself from a health perspective.

This year, I plan to improve personally and socially, which is why I aim to make sleep as much a priority as travelling, or guzzling a kale smoothie a couple of times a week.

In a day and age where “sleep is for the weak”, we are enamoured by the prospect of doing everything and more to keep our lives as exciting as possible. The desire to showcase our fun lives on social media platforms contribute to this #FOMO (fear of missing out) mentality, pushing us to do more and more, at the risk of sacrificing our sleep.

This ultimately backfires. Studies have shown, time and time again, that shortened or poor sleep only results in a series of negative consequences, which conversely impacts our abilities to lead the glamorous lifestyles we so desire. And I’ve experienced this first hand, being constantly tired and unfocused, thus finding it difficult to ‘keep up’ with those who seem to be better rested and consistent in their sleeping habits.

So, as this year comes to a close and we take the time to reflect on everything that’s happened this past year, I implore you to take a few seconds to think about yourselves. Yes, by all means, rejoice away and live your lives to the fullest, but remember that reaching your full potential can only come with the self-care and self-love that stems from a well-rested body.

Sleep is relaxing and revitalising in more ways than you can possibly imagine. It carves out that little time just for yourself, and a world of subconsciousness that transports you a peaceful and restorative space of that belongs and is controlled by you. And with regular, healthy sleeping practices, you’re bound to see the results immediately.

Sleep isn’t a task, it’s my resolution; a promise to myself to be the best I can be, so I can achieve more in due course. Celebrate the coming of the new year, and celebrate yourself, because being yourself is the best start to the new year!

The myza team wishes you an incredibly Happy New Year! Sweet dreams!