AUBURN, Ala. (EETV) - Auburn University psychology professor Jennifer Robinson and her team have discovered a number of side effects from not getting enough sleep.
Robinson, the director of the Cognitive and Behavioral Sciences Program, said that sleep is a critical biological process that impacts our functioning on every level.
Sleep is not only important for our physical health, but it is also important for our mental and cognitive health.
Sleep deprivation can impair motor skills and negatively affect our emotions and decision-making abilities.
Robinson said that while we sleep, our brains integrate information that we’ve obtained throughout the day and that is particularly important for students because it’s one of the most effective ways to form new memories and enhance learning.
Robinson also discussed the importance of establishing a self-care routine and developing "micro habits", especially as the pandemic continues to impact our everyday lives.
Micro habits are one to two minute commitments to oneself, where you do something that makes you feel good. Listening to music, meditating, journaling or stretching at some point in your day can have a positive impact on your health and well-being.
Avoiding processed foods, unplugging from technology before bed and going outside for at least 30 minutes a day are also things you can incorporate into your routine to improve your overall health and sleeping habits.
