Why is sleep a necessary component of wellbeing? Sleep is vital as it is a crucial pillar of physical and mental wellbeing. It is essential for survival, and without it, the body cannot function, repair, or process events of the day.
Sleep is responsible for memory consolidation, learning and information processing, physical recovery and growth, emotional regulation, and immune system functioning. Therefore, lack of sleep may result in lowered health and increased chances of encountering major health issues. There are several theories surrounding why humans sleep, or have evolved to
Restorative Theory:
The restorative theory is that sleep is like a repair process. It gives the body and brain time to health muscles, boost immune system, and clear out waste products from the day.
Brain Plasticity Theory (Information Consolidation):
This theory suggests that sleep organises the information learned during the day and stores it as long-term memories. It helps the brain build and maintain healthy and strong neural connections.
Evolutionary (Adaptive) Theory:
This theory explains how sleep is a survival mechanism that helps us conserve energy and avoid danger, rooted from evolutionary practises that have adapted to habits. By sleeping during the dark night, humans and animals stay hidden from predators when they are most vulnerable.
Energy Conservation Theory:
This theory suggests that sleep forces one to lower their body's energy demands in order to not waste calories. This is explicitly helpful to animals whose food sources are scarce.