5 Surprising Things About Sleeping

Sleeping is like breathing…we need to do it Unlike breathing, we don’t really know exactly why we need sleep. 

Years of research has given us SOME info on why we do this mysterious thing we call sleep. Here are five interesting – and surprising – facts that you may not know about sleeping…

5. Interrupted sleep is worse than staying awake

We all get little like oscar the grouch when we don’t sleep enough, according to a recent study, people whose sleep gets interrupted are even more grouchy than those who don’t get their required seven or so hours of shut eye. 

4. Sleeping is related to our diets

Sleep and our diet have the same relationship as the chicken and egg. The less we sleep, the more likely we are to seek out junk food for that quick energy hit. However, the more junk we eat, the less likely we’re going to get a good night’s sleep. In short, get enough sleep, and lay off the junk food.

3. Snowy days keeps us in bed longer

We don’t exactly hibernate, but a recent analysis of some sleeping data found that people who live in snow-heavy areas sleep for a little longer. Reasons for this change in sleeping habits include the reduction in daylight hours, and the fact that our beds are just way too comfortable to get out of during winter. 

2. Sometimes half our brain is more alert whilst we’re sleeping

Aside from being better swimmers than us, dolphins are also able to sleep by shutting down half their brain. Well, according to a recent study, humans can do the same thing – albeit in a less drastic fashion. Apparently, this phenomenon is something of a survival instinct – whenever there’s danger, the active half of the brain will wake the sleeper up.

1. Going to be angry may actually be a good thing

Contrary to what people say, going to bed angry may actually be helpful for a couple’s relationship. Apparently, sleep helps partners to clear their thoughts and get some rest, which allows them to resume their arguments with a more level-headed approach. We’re not saying this is the go-to solution for all arguments, but it’s nice to know that the option is there if needed.