Why We Need Sleep

Most adults need between seven and nine hours of sleep every night. Yet many people regularly get much less than that. While we sleep, the brain sorts and stores what we learned during the day. This is why a good night's sleep before an exam is so important. Sleep also gives the body time to repair muscles and fight illness. People who sleep badly often find it harder to concentrate and control their mood. Over time, poor sleep can increase the risk of serious health problems. Experts recommend going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. Keeping the bedroom dark, quiet and cool can also make a big difference.