Heads up: we’ve been coming across a lot of information lately about how warmer months, fun though they may be, can negatively affect sleep.
With all of the activity of summertime, you’d think the average person would sleep better at night than at other times of the year. Not so, experts are saying, and there are a variety of reasons.
One major issue is actually the long stretches of inactivity, particularly on holiday if you don’t have much planned. Although summer is known for its fun sports (particularly in and near the water), these periods of activity are just that, experts say: periods.
In between, culturally we generally tend to take a “relax…it’s summertime” attitude. This means less energy expenditure during the day and therefore, a loss of quality sleep at night.
The heat itself, of course, is another stumbling block to quality sleep. Anyone who’s struggled through a humid night with baby powder on the sheets knows how heat can keep you from falling asleep. But it can also be a factor in staying asleep, according to sleep researchers.
That’s because during periods of REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, the body’s ability to sweat and shiver drops way down. When body temperature begins to match the outside temperature, waking occurs so the body can regulate itself once again. Though people who live in continuously hot climates acclimate and sleep well, areas with significant temperature changes from season to season and from day to evening don’t experience this benefit.
Also, a change in the day’s structure can be a sleep-wrecker. Even going to bed one hour later than your routine for several days can throw your internal clock off and confuse your body as to when “lights out” and “up and at ‘em!” are supposed to occur.
Luckily, forewarned is forearmed. Take the above into consideration when planning your days, even if they’re luxury ones. Forgo that summer afternoon nap and take a satisfying walk in nature instead. Invest in an air conditioner or quality fan for the bedroom so you stay cool at night.
And enjoy…before you know it, these humid days will be over and we’ll be battening down for winter once again. So make the most of your summer, but don’t forget to take care of your body, and your sleep.
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