Sleep is one of the most important pillars of good health. While we sleep, we are recharged both mentally and physically. Our bodies become rejuvenated, allowing them to secrete an important growth hormone that signals the tissues and organs to enter a time of repair and rebuilding. During periods of sleep, toxins are also removed from our systems, and our minds are given a break from mental activity. This break allows our memory to be restored and helps us sort through and resolve emotional conflict through dreaming.

Although sleep is essential, we seem to be getting less of it these days. In 1910, the average adult slept about nine to ten hours a night. Now, however, the average American adult sleeps about seven hours a night. Individuals who suffer from chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, frequent colds or infections, depression, anxiety, or most any other chronic disease, usually need at least eight hours of sleep a night and would benefit even more from nine hours.