Sleep Is Vital For Good Memory, New Study Confirms

We're often reminded of the importance of sleep, with many health experts emphasising the importance that rest has on our overall well being. And new study findings have confirmed that sleep does indeed help our memory.

It has long been said that sleep is an important factor in retaining and improving memory, and the new research, published in Science, has backed this up by discovering the way in which brain cells communicate with one another during slumber.

The Study

Scientists in New York studied the brain activities of mice who had been taught a new skill; to walk on a rotating rod. Some of the mice were able to sleep, while others were sleep deprived.

The researchers found that the sleeping mice's brains were able to form new connections that enabled them to remember the new skill that they had learned. This confirms the vital role that sleep plays in the process of memorising information, and is a big indication as to why people who get more sleep are more likely to perform better in work and education.

Good Sleep Hygiene

When it comes to resting up at night, it's vital that we practice good sleep hygiene. But what actually is sleep hygiene? Essentially, it is a practice of following guidelines or recommendations in order to improve sleep and overcome sleep problems.

If you are wondering how to get to sleep at night or how to sleep better, improving your sleep hygiene is a great place to start. Here are some basic pointers:

• Don't eat heavy meals too close to bedtime, as this can stimulate the digestive system and keep you awake at night.
   
• Restrict your intake of caffeine for a few hours before bed, as this is an energy-boosting stimulant which can hamper your sleep.
   
• Avoid TV, mobile phone and computer screens before bed, as the blue light given off prevents the production of the sleep-inducing hormone melatonin.
   
• Read a book or listen to some soothing music as a way to wind down and relax the body before sleep.
   
• Take a warm bath to relax the muscles in the body; you can even try adding some lavender essential oil as this has a calming effect.
   
• Ensure your bedroom is cool, quiet, dark and well ventilated.

Above: New research has confirmed that a good night's sleep helps to improve memory and learning. A good bed is vitally important to improving sleep and ensuring a restful night.

One thing we often ignore is the importance of our beds and mattresses. Given that we spend around a third of our lives in bed, this can't be underestimated. Your bed and mattress should be comfortable and offer good support to your spine in order to promote good sleep.

Experts advise replacing beds every seven years. How long have you had yours? View our range of high quality beds to help improve your sleep.

Not sure which to go for? Check out our bed buying guide to help with your decision.

Everybody knows just how important it is to get a good night's rest, and the latest findings have confirmed that our memory and learning abilities are directly affected by our sleep habits. Following a good sleep hygiene routine, including a comfortable mattress and bed can help with promoting a restful night.