Winter sleep is unquestionably cosy because of the long nights, cooler temperatures and the cosiness of heated blankets.
There is scientific evidence to support the widespread observation that people sleep more deeply and contentedly during the winter months.
Sleep.me claims that the body’s natural reaction to the changing seasons affects how people sleep during the winter. As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, our circadian clock adapts appropriately.
According to research shared by the above source, people typically get around 30 minutes more REM sleep in the winter than in the summer.
This piece discusses why sleep feels different in winter and offers useful tips for maximising its benefits.
Your body can more easily cool down and enter deep, restorative sleep in cooler temperatures, which also creates the perfect sleeping environment.
However, sluggishness, a low mood, and even symptoms of seasonal depression can result from oversleeping or bad sleeping habits during the winter.
Reducing seasonal fatigue and encouraging deeper sleep at night can be achieved by staying active with regular movement or exercise, even indoors.
Avoid caffeine in the late hours of the day since it can cause sleep delays and remain in your system for hours.
Invest in breathable materials and warm bedding layers to keep you comfortable all night long without overheating or interfering with your natural sleep cycles.
According to Sleep Foundation, “The screens of electronic devices such as smartphones, computers, tablets, and televisions can emit blue light that disrupts our natural sleep cycles.”
So, establish a relaxing bedtime ritual to let your body know it’s time to unwind, such as reading, practising meditation, or drinking herbal tea.
To encourage deeper sleep during the long winter nights, keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet.
Also see: Rest-deprived or sleep-deprived? Know the difference
