The book "Why We Sleep" by Matthew Walker explains that sleep is absolutely essential for life, playing a vital role in brain and body health. Sleep enriches numerous brain functions, including learning, memory, decision- making, emotional regulation, immune system replenishment, metabolism, and appetite control. Sleep loss has devastating consequences linked to numerous health issues like Alzheimer's, cancer, heart attacks, stroke, depression, and compromised immune function. Walker also explains that sleep consists of different stages (REM and NREM) which serve distinct purposes like memory consolidation and emotional healing through dreams. He emphasizes the need for a full 7-8 hours of quality sleep to maintain cognitive and physical performance, creativity, mood, and longevity. The book provides scientific insights and practical tips for better sleep, highlighting sleep deprivation as a serious public health problem with wide-ranging effects. In summary, "Why We Sleep" reveals sleep as a fundamental biological necessity that restores and optimizes the mind and body for overall health, productivity, and well- being.
