#div #sleep #winter #sleepingmore #lightaffects #seasonality #REMsleep #healthtips #seasonaldepression #sleepenvironment
Many people find themselves feeling sleepier during the winter months, and research indicates that it’s not just a feeling. Dr. Raj Dasgupta, an associate professor of clinical medicine at Huntington Memorial Hospital in Pasadena, California, points to studies showing at least a third of American adults report sleeping more in the winter. Even though adults typically require 7-9 hours of sleep per night, the winter darkness caused by the change to standard time can lead to an increase in melatonin production and, subsequently, the feeling of needing more sleep. However, it’s important to note that favorable sleep conditions and mental and physical health can impact your need for sleep during the winter months. Expert suggestions for addressing this desire for more sleep include adjusting exposure to natural and artificial light, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and considering light therapy as a treatment option.
Summery :
– As the winter season approaches, many people report feeling like they need more sleep than usual
– Light fluctuations throughout the year, including decreased sunlight in the winter, causes an increase in melatonin production, making people feel tired and in need of more sleep
– Light has an impact on both the quantity and quality of sleep, potentially leading to more REM sleep during the winter
– Other behavioral and mental health factors such as holiday stress, diet, alcohol intake, and skipped workouts also affect sleep during the winter
– Adjusting to the season may involve sleeping a little more, getting exposure to natural light in the morning, using light therapy, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and seeking professional help if struggling with seasonal depression.
