As we celebrate World Sleep Day, the pursuit of quality sleep takes centre stage. It’s no secret that quality sleep is essential for our health because it helps our brains, strengthens our immune system, controls our metabolism, reduces stress, and repairs our skin. But getting a peaceful night’s sleep isn’t always easy. According to the seventh Great Indian Sleep Scorecard (GISS) 2024, conducted by Wakefit, reveals that nearly half of the Indian population wakes up feeling exhausted, indicating potential issues with sleep quality.
The report also suggests that a quarter of Indians believe they suffer from insomnia, while an overwhelming 88% report experiencing multiple awakenings throughout the night.
Dyson engineer Michael Love offers invaluable insights into optimizing your sleep environment to ensure you get the best possible rest.
The right light: Studies suggest that unintentional exposure to artificial light late at night (for example from phone or computer screens) tends to disrupt sleep continuity, which can have a knock-on effect on efficiency throughout the day. To minimise disruption, consider using lights that aid relaxation and facilitate a gradual wake-up in the morning.
Mattress Vacuuming: While it may look clean, your mattress may be a hotbed of microscopic life, which could impact your well-being while you sleep. Dust mites, their faces, bacteria, viruses, pollen, and other allergens make up the complex matrix that is household dust, which also exists in your mattress and could be a distraction from a good night’s sleep.
During sleep, our bodies elevate the surface temperature of mattresses while sweating and the buffering capacity of bedding materials increases humidity. This combination creates optimal conditions for house dust mites and facilitates the release of VOCs into the air. Regular washing and vacuuming can reduce allergen build-up for a healthier sleep environment.
Minimise Pollution: Indoor air pollution may decrease the quality of your sleep due to the presence of potential pollutants and allergy triggers in the air. The Global Connected Air Quality Data project reveals that in India, the most polluted time inside the home was between 7 am and midday which means we’re breathing in the polluted air right when we wake up. A quiet purifier is crucial for uninterrupted sleep. Excessive noise can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to poor rest and decreased productivity during the day. A purifier equipped with night mode dims the display and ensures quiet operation, making it ideal for use while sleeping.
Right temperature: Adjusting the ambient temperature to suit your body’s needs is essential for achieving comfortable sleep. This involves warmer air during cooler months and cooler air in the summer to ensure a restful night.
Wash Away the Worries: Washing sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in hot water at least 140°F will help break down and reduce allergens. It’s recommended that you launder and change your bedding once a week to remove microscopic skin flakes and keep dust and allergens at bay.
https://www.financialexpress.com/lifestyle/unlocking-the-secrets-of-quality-sleep-expert-tips-on-world-sleep-day/3426598/
