Exercise and Down Etc. an unbeatable combination if you’re looking to have a great night’s sleep™. Although we may not yet know exactly why exercise improves sleep, studies leave little room for doubt as to the benefits of regular and consistent exercise on our sleep. It also appears a great night’s sleep has a significant positive effect on subsequent exercise.
The relationship between sleep and exercise and the ways in which each contributes to the other are complex. The Sleep Foundation noted on its website a study concluding people sleep significantly better and feel more alert during the day if they get at least 150 minutes of exercise a week. “As little as 10 minutes of aerobic exercise, such as walking or cycling, can dramatically improve the quality of your nighttime sleep, especially when done on a regular basis. Physical activity improves sleep quality and increases sleep duration. Exercise may also bolster sleep in other ways, because it reduces stress and tires you out.”
“Researchers don’t completely understand how physical activity improves sleep. *** However, we do know that moderate aerobic exercise increases the amount of slow wave sleep you get. Slow wave sleep refers to deep sleep, where the brain and body have a chance to rejuvenate. Exercise can also help to stabilize your mood and decompress the mind, ‘a cognitive process that is important for naturally transitioning to sleep,’” says Charlene Gamaldo, M.D., Medical Director of Johns Hopkins Center for Sleep.
Studies have also revealed the benefits of sleep on exercise. Although exercise may take several weeks or months to significantly change sleep, a poor night’s sleep can have a significant negative effect on exercise the next day.
Exercise accomplished, you will be ready to have a great night’s sleep™. If you’re at home, the perfect pillow will get you to sleep sooner. If you’re traveling, don’t forget to take along Down Etc’s Head Heaven® Travel Pillow or Pillowtogo™ Travel Pillow and Throw to arrive refreshed and ready to run.
Before you get out of bed the next morning, ease yourself into another hectic day with Down Etc's Pillowcise™, a gentle series of stretches designed to be done before you get out of bed. Let you pillow help you to start the day off right!
Updated Links July 27, 2022
