CNN reports on tips and tricks that people can use to battle insomnia during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“With all the stress and unknowns regarding the covid-19 pandemic, a lot of people are understandably glued to their phones right now, constantly checking news outlets and talking to family members,” says certified sleep science coach Matthew Ross, co-founder and COO of The Slumber Yard. “However, constant contact with your phone can hinder both productivity during the day and your sleep quality at night.”
Beyond the negative aspects related to blue light, having your phone next to you can make you feel anxious, he adds. “When your phone is within arm’s reach, you’ll be tempted to check news outlets and think about the current crisis, which will obviously cause stress.
Ross recommends doing some light stretching exercises about 15 to 30 minutes before lying down. “It’s often difficult to fall asleep when your muscles are tense and tight, which can happen during times of extreme stress like covid-19 pandemic,” he says. “If you go to bed tight, you’ll likely end up tossing and turning frequently in order to find a comfortable position. Stretching will help loosen up your muscles and get your body in a relaxed state for sleep.”
Hi,
I agree that allowing yourself time to relax before going to bed is extremely important, and even moreso in light of current circumstances.
You have alluded to the impact blue light with have on our melatonin levels if we are constantly on our phones (or any other elecronic gadget) leading up to sleep, but I think we tend to forget how using a smartphone also influences our thinking patterns.
You’ve mentioned the stress that current news events are likely to cause, and how this may lead to difficulties sleeping.
However, I think it’s also important to note that even stimulating the brain in a positive manner before sleep is a no-no.
Something as innocent as conversing with friends via WhatsApp or Facebook in the minutes leading up to bedtime can also have an adverse effect.
As ludicrous as it may sound to some, I believe leaving the phone alone a good 60-90 minutes before bed is ideal if you’re looking for a great night’s rest.
Partha