Avoid the health hazards of a busy career

MANILA, Philippines - If you’re one of those doing the graveyard shift at work, this one’s for you. Indeed, the rise in employment of call center agents, marketing executives, and nurses has created a strong demand for those who can work unconventional (read: ungodly) hours. However, in spite of their desire to earn an honest living and fulfill a career path, such professionals can unintentionally compromise their health due to lack of sleep.

For instance, there’s Vera Redoblado, a 24-year-old nurse trainee previously assigned at a local general hospital. She used to be in the 10 p.m. to 6:30 a.m. shift in the operating room. She would go home and rest at around 10 a.m., then get up at 7 p.m. to prepare for her next shift. But since she has been reassigned to a day shift, the erratic pattern of her body’s rest period began causing her headaches. Her sleep patterns during her rest days are also irregular as it’s difficult for her to induce sleep come bedtime.

The situation is the same for Joyce Mojica, a 23-year-old former marketing director who works from 12 midnight to 9 a.m. “I find it hard to rest even during the weekends,” she shares.

For 24-year-old JC Medes, good quality sleep, exercise, and proper diet are all he needs to be fully energized. As a service director for a call center, he works different shifts but most of the time, he does graveyard. His idea of a good sleep is one that lasts for six hours, just so he doesn’t get sleep-deprived.

These young professionals are all trying to avoid the effects of poor sleep, which, according to studies, can harm the mind and body. The effects of sleep deprivation include the inability to absorb new learning and a likeliness to develop poor memory; and the weakening of the immune system, making the body prone to sickness. Alarmingly, those who lack sleep are at higher risk for type-2 diabetes and obesity. Such health obstacles will surely hinder careers from truly taking off.

Fortunately, there are natural dietary supplements that can help them get good quality sleep. Sleepasil contains a rich blend of natural ingredients like melatonin, chamomile, and valerian root. Thus, it is not habit-forming as opposed to other medications. It is safe and ideal for those who want to help their bodies relax after fulfilling a day of work.

But aside from supplements, there are other ways that people can hit the sheets and give the body some well-deserved rest.

“I just try to free my mind of any concerns or problems,” says Joyce.

 “I try to pamper myself every once in a while,” is Vera’s personal tip for getting a good night’s sleep. “Our muscles get really tired during the week so allow them to relax and you’ll see the big difference that it does to help you get a better rest.”

A therapeutic massage or even a quick trip to the spa can ease those tensed muscles. When the body feels relaxed, it brings a sense of calmness to the mind as well, which easily induces sleep.

“I believe that the amount of food we consume for the day can also disrupt our rest,” JC says. “That’s why I try to get a proper diet and exercise my body.”