World Sleep Day – This day is meant to remind us of that

World Sleep Day takes place every year on the third Friday in March, before the equinox and shortly before the official start of spring. This year, World Sleep Day falls on March 18, 2022. Here you will learn about the significance of this day and why we should use it every year as a moment of renewed reflection.

Why does World Sleep Day exist?

World Sleep Day was established in 2008 by the World Sleep Federation (WSF) together with the World Association of Sleep Medicine (WASM). These two organizations eventually formed the World Sleep Society, which has since aimed to raise awareness about the importance of sleep. The association consists of experts and researchers from the fields of medicine and health. The purpose of World Sleep Day is to encourage society and healthcare providers to focus more on sleep-related topics, discuss them, and exchange information and insights.

This year's World Sleep Day motto

Every year, the World Sleep Society releases a new slogan for World Sleep Day that conveys a specific message. This year it is "Quality Sleep, Sound Mind, Happy World." How can quality sleep influence and promote mental health? How can better sleep improve concentration during the day? And to what extent can fatigue limit us mentally, emotionally, and physically? 

How important is sleep?

World Sleep Day highlights how important good sleep is. Sleep is not something to be neglected, as it can have serious effects on many areas of life and health. Studies from various countries show that people sometimes sleep only five or six hours. Yet sleep is a basic need that should not be underestimated or neglected. In this short time, it is difficult for the body to fully regenerate. 

Moreover, not all sleep is the same, as restless tossing and turning and frequent awakenings affect sleep quality. When the alarm rings, you often don't feel rested but rather exhausted and very tired. Starting the day like this can be draining over time and significantly increase stress levels. A consistently high cortisol level (stress hormone) negatively affects the cardiovascular system. Long-term consequences of poor sleep include overweight, high blood pressure, concentration difficulties, and mental illnesses. 

What can I do about poor sleep?

First of all, it is important that you take your sleep seriously – and not just on World Sleep Day. When you understand that your sleep directly affects your well-being and health, you can also actively do something for a good night's sleep. For example, avoid electronic devices before bedtime, don't drink caffeinated beverages a few hours before going to sleep, and skip late meals that only keep your body busy during the night. Anything that unsettles your body is disadvantageous before sleep. Evening rituals like meditating or a warm shower can work small wonders. However, if you struggle with severe sleep problems, it's important to find the cause. Do you have too much stress at work or in daily life? Do you not allow yourself any breaks, or has something been burdening you for a long time? Take this seriously and, if necessary, seek medical help to get advice on possible solutions. 

In lighter, sleepless, and stressful phases, even small aids can do a lot of good. A cup of sleep tea, essential oils, or a weighted blanket are things that can improve your sleep quality. The comforting weight of the blanket embraces your body, making you feel safe and secure. This pleasant sensation is triggered by the pressure on the deep receptors in your body. Even during panic or anxiety attacks, the gentle pressure can have a calming effect. Give it a try!