In today's world, it's hard to avoid screens. Whether we're catching up on our favourite shows, scrolling through social media, or working late, screens have become a part of our daily routine. But babe, have you ever wondered how all that screen time might be affecting your sleep?
The blue light blues
First things first—let’s talk about blue light. This is the kind of light that your phone, tablet, and computer screens emit. During the day, blue light helps keep us alert and awake, which is great when we're working or studying. But when it comes to winding down at night, too much blue light can throw off our body's natural sleep-wake cycle.
Your body relies on something called melatonin; a hormone that helps regulate sleep. When it gets dark, your body starts producing more melatonin, signalling that it’s time to get some shut eye. But when you're glued to your screen before bed, the blue light tricks your brain into thinking it’s still daytime, and that melatonin production takes a hit. The result? You might find it harder to fall asleep, stay asleep, or get quality rest.
The ripple effect on your health
So, what happens when your sleep isn’t up to scratch? It’s not just about feeling tired the next day (though that’s part of it). Poor sleep can lead to a whole host of other issues.
For starters, it can mess with your mood. Ever notice how everything feels a bit more stressful or overwhelming after a bad night’s sleep? That’s because lack of sleep can make you more irritable and less able to handle the ups and downs of life.
Then there’s your physical health. Sleep is when your body gets to work repairing and rejuvenating itself. Skimping on sleep can weaken your immune system, make it harder to keep your weight in check, and even increase your risk of serious health issues like heart disease and diabetes.
Finding balance
Now, we’re not saying you need to ditch your devices entirely. Let’s be real screens are a big part of how we stay connected, entertained, and informed. But there are ways to enjoy your screen time without sacrificing your sleep.
- Set a screen curfew: Try to turn off your screens at least an hour before bedtime. This gives your body a chance to wind down and start producing that all-important melatonin.
- Use night mode: Many devices now come with a “night mode” feature that reduces blue light. It’s not a perfect solution, but it can help reduce the impact on your sleep.
- Prioritise sleep: Make sleep a non-negotiable part of your routine. Create a relaxing bedtime ritual—think a warm bath, some light reading, or a few minutes of meditation—to help signal to your body that it’s time to rest.
Conclusion
Screen time is a fact of modern life, but it doesn’t have to come at the expense of your sleep. By being mindful of how and when you use your screens, you can protect your sleep and wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day.
Remember, good sleep is the foundation of good health—and that’s something worth making time for.
