How Exercise Can Help You Sleep Better and Live Longer
We all know sleep is important, but did you know that how much (or how little) you sleep can impact your long-term health? Experts recommend 7 to 9 hours per night, yet about a third of people don’t hit that target. The good news? Regular exercise may help reduce the risks of heart disease and early death associated with poor sleep.
A recent study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology suggests that people who sleep too little (under 6 hours) or too much (over 8 hours) can counteract potential health risks if they stay physically active. Researchers tracked over 92,000 adults using motion sensors, rather than relying on self-reported data. After seven years, those who got too little or too much sleep were more likely to die—unless they exercised regularly. Those who clocked at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise per week had no increased risk, no matter their sleep patterns.
So, if you’re struggling with sleep or worried about its long-term effects, don’t stress—just move! Whether it’s running, dancing, or even brisk walking, staying active can help protect your body and mind.