Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for adults and children as it impacts our physical health, mood, and cognitive abilities. While there are plenty of ways to improve the quality of sleep, one surprising yet effective way is through swimming. Yes, you read that right – swimming can help with sleep! So, let’s dive in and discover the benefits.
Swimming is not only an excellent form of exercise, but it can also promote better sleep. For starters, swimming helps release endorphins, which are known to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Additionally, the rhythmic movements of swimming have a soothing effect on the body, much like the sensation of being rocked to sleep. This gentle motion helps calm the mind, lower heart rate, and reduce muscle tension, all contributing to a better night’s sleep.
But what about children? The good news is that swimming can be equally beneficial for kids. Studies have shown that regular swimming can improve sleep patterns for children, especially those with ADHD or other sensory processing disorders that may affect sleep quality. Swimming can also be a helpful tool to tire out energetic kids, leading to better sleep at night.
When it comes to the number of sleep hours swimmers need, it’s similar to the recommended hours of sleep for the general population. The National Sleep Foundation recommends that adults get 7-9 hours of sleep per night, while children should get anywhere from 9-14 hours, depending on their age. Of course, the amount of sleep one needs may vary depending on individual circumstances and lifestyle habits. Still, swimmers should aim to get the recommended amount of sleep to reap the benefits on and off the pools.
It’s worth noting that swimming, like any other form of exercise before bedtime, should be done with caution. While it may seem intuitive that engaging in physical activity can tire us, swimming too late in the evening may disrupt sleep. Experts suggest that exercising three to four hours before bedtime is optimal for the body to cool down and get ready for restful sleep.
If you’re looking for a way to improve your sleep, swimming is worth considering. With its physical and psychological benefits, swimming has proven to be an effective way to promote better sleep quality and reduce stress levels. Whether you’re an adult looking for a new workout routine or a concerned parent wanting to help your child sleep better, swimming is a fantastic choice. Just remember to give yourself ample time to cool down after a swim to ensure that you get the restorative sleep you need. Sleep tight! Getting fit, but you’re also setting yourself up for a good night’s sleep.
At Fred’s Beds, we understand the importance of resting well for your best health and happiness. As the chosen mattress store for Cumming, Atlanta, Sandy Springs, and all of North Georgia, we offer a large selection of discount luxury mattresses, bedding, and adjustable beds to give the swimmers in your life a great night’s sleep.