The importance of a good night's sleep
Most people know that getting a good night's sleep is important, but few truly understand how vital at least seven to eight hours of sleep a night is.
Getting enough sleep is crucial for both our physical and mental health. It helps to boost our immune system, improves our mood and cognitive function, and reduces stress levels.
The benefits of good sleep on overall health and wellness
There are numerous physical health benefits associated with getting enough sleep.
It can:
boost your immune system.
repair tissue damage.
reduce inflammation.
regulate hormones.
regulate blood sugar levels.
control appetite-stimulating hormones.
improve your skin.
Sleep also plays a vital role in regulating mood and managing stress levels. It can:
reduce stress and anxiety.
improve our concentration and cognitive performance.
Boost your energy levels.
make it easier to cope with difficult situations.
help reduce the risk of developing mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.
If you're having trouble sleeping, try these tips:
Establish a regular sleep schedule.
Create a relaxing bedtime routine.
Limit caffeine and alcohol consumption.
Avoid screen time before bed.
Make sure your bedroom is dark and quiet.
Take time to relax and clear your mind.
Make sure your bed is comfortable.
In conclusion, prioritizing sleep is one of the most effective ways to enhance your overall health and well-being. By understanding the profound impact that quality sleep has on both your body and mind, and by implementing healthy sleep habits, you can significantly improve your quality of life. So, take that step toward better health tonight by committing to a good night's sleep.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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84.6% Yes
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13.9% No
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1.5% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
Harbour Bridge lane closure - protests
The Treaty Principles Bill was introduced to parliament last week and could have ramifications on the partnership between the Crown and Māori.
Hīkoi mō te Tiriti (March for the Treaty of Waitangi) set off from Cape Rēinga on Monday morning and is expected to reach Wellington next Tuesday. It has now passed through Kaitaia, Kawakawa, Whangārei, Dargaville and is passing through Auckland on Wednesday.
What you need to know today:
- The hīkoi is due to cross the Auckland Harbour Bridge about 9.30am on Wednesday. Two northbound lanes will be closed at some point before the crossing, and remain closed during it.
- NZTA shared at 8:50am Wednesday:
'Curran St northbound on-ramp will be closed shortly, with two northbound lanes on the Harbour Bridge expected to close from approx 9.30am this morning. Allow extra time for likely delays through this area.'
- The hīkoi is expected to go across the Harbour Bridge, in a controlled fashion before marching through parts of the CBD towards Okahu Bay.
- Auckland commuters should expect traffic disruption in vicinity of both sides of the Harbour Bridge.
Stuff reporter Steve Kilgallon was at Stafford Park on the north side of the Harbour Bridge at 8.30am Wednesday and shared:
"I just walked through Stafford Park, where there’s about 400-500 people quietly assembled and more arriving; and about 20 police standing over near the motorway off ramp. Lot of Tino Rangatira flags in evidence, local streets very busy with parked cars."
Police have shared that they will respond accordingly to any issues that may arise along the route.
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