Wake up, everyone! It’s time to recognize that healthy sleep is not a luxury—it’s a cornerstone of brain health. Sleep hygiene should be a top priority for people of all ages, at every stage of life.
I’m Dr. Hannah Gardener, a neuroepidemiologist, medical school faculty member in neurology, and healthy home consultant. Sleep health isn’t just something I study—it’s something I live by and advocate for in my community.
Last year, I led a successful campaign in my town to delay school start times. Why? Because teens who get more sleep have better cognitive performance and mental health. And when our children thrive, our whole community benefits.
What Is Sleep Health, Really?
As an epidemiologist specializing in brain health, I study how sleep affects our risk for serious neurological conditions—including stroke and dementia, two of the top causes of death and disability worldwide.
But “sleep health” goes far beyond getting 7–9 hours of sleep per night. It also includes:
- Sleep quality
- Sleep regularity
- Daytime alertness
- Sleep disorders (e.g., sleep apnea, insomnia, REM sleep behavior disorder)
- Circadian rhythm disorders
Poor sleep habits can silently erode your long-term health—even if you think you’re getting enough rest.
How Can You Improve Your Sleep Health?
The first step: prioritize sleep as essential, not optional.
Start with the basics:
- Aim for 7–9 hours of uninterrupted sleep.
- Create a calming, comfortable sleep environment.
- Talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing chronic sleep issues.
Your ideal sleep setup is personal, but elements like darkness, noise levels, temperature, bedding, and mattress quality all play a crucial role. Investing in a healthy sleep environment isn’t indulgent—it’s preventive healthcare.
Why Sleep Is a Critical Health Indicator
Sleep directly impacts both brain and heart health. Poor sleep increases the risk of:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Alzheimer’s and other dementias
Recognizing this, the American Heart Association updated its cardiovascular health guidelines in 2022 to include sleep in its “Life’s Essential 8”—a set of behaviors and metrics shown to reduce heart and brain disease risk. Sleep made the list for a reason.
The Hidden Danger Lurking in Your Mattress
As a healthy home consultant, one of the biggest—and often overlooked—exposures I warn clients about is their mattress.
Conventional mattresses often contain:
- Chemical flame retardants
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
- Formaldehyde
- Plastics and plasticizers
- Pesticides
These toxins are associated with cancer, neurodevelopmental issues, reproductive harm, and respiratory problems. And since we spend a third of our lives on our mattresses, they are a major source of long-term exposure—especially for babies, children, and anyone who is pregnant or trying to conceive.
Why I Recommend a Certified Organic Mattress
I always recommend investing in a GOTS and GOLS certified organic mattress. These certifications ensure that:
- No toxic flame retardants are used (instead, they rely on natural wool).
- There are no harmful chemicals or synthetic materials.
- The mattress supports overall health—not undermines it.
An organic mattress is one of the most impactful purchases you can make for your home. It’s not just about comfort—it’s about protection.
Why My Family (and Clients) Sleep on MyGreenMattress
Not all organic mattresses are created equal, and after extensive research and personal experience, MyGreenMattress is my top choice. Here’s why:
- Comfort: MyGreenMattress products are supremely comfortable, supporting restful, high-quality sleep. The individually pocketed coils provide optimal support and motion isolation.
- Durability: Hand button tufting provides superior durability and means that no adhesives are needed. I’ve used mine for over five years—and it still feels brand new.
- Truly non-toxic materials:
- GOTS-certified organic cotton and wool
- GOLS-certified organic Dunlop latex
- No fiberglass, no adhesives, no chemical flame retardants, no synthetic foam
- Exceptional customer service: As someone who works with brands daily, I can say their team is responsive, helpful, and knowledgeable—which is key for my clients.
When it comes to choosing where to spend your money on a healthier home, a high-quality organic mattress is at the top of my list. It’s an investment in better sleep, better health, and peace of mind.
Sleep Better, Live Healthier
Making sleep a priority isn’t just good advice—it’s a public health imperative. Whether you’re focused on preventing cognitive decline, improving daily energy, or protecting your family from toxic exposures, the path starts with healthy sleep.
Start tonight.
