Myths are common in our society, mostly spread through word-of-mouth or online. These misconceptions are based on assumptions and personal opinions. Very few have any connection to factual data or information. Thus, debunking these myths becomes crucial to let the facts and figures set in.
Now, when it comes to sleep. let’s be honest, we all love it! It’s one of the biggest parts of your life that defines the mood of your day. A well slept individual will be more active and fresher compared to those who barely sleep or snooze for less than 6-7 hours. However, the last thing you need after a long, tiring day is to be unable to sleep.
When sleep evades us, we start taking different approaches to get quality sleep. But, not every trick is right. Many are based on assumptions and misconceptions. Following wrong sleep practices can affect your immunity, attentiveness, respiratory & digestive system, and endocrine system. Frankly, no one likes to count sheep when what we really want is restful sleep!
So, stick to the facts to ensure you get quality sleep. We have debunked 7 common myths about sleep that we all get wrong.
#Myth 1: I will get used to less sleep overtime, no worries!
#Fact 1: Lack of sleep affects your brain and body
Conclusive research has proven that short-term or long-term sleep deprivation has negative effects on your body. Your body does not adapt to less sleep.
The short-term symptoms of lack of sleep are daytime dizziness and fatigue. Further progression will wreak havoc on your metabolism, the immune system, the cardiovascular system, hormone production, and mental health.
So, if your body gets accustomed to any sleep-deprivation symptom, then watch out, it might be progressing to a different symptom altogether.
#Myth 2: The longer I sleep, the better my body will feel
#Fact 2: Quality of your sleep also matters
Many people assume that the longer they sleep, the better they will feel. However, the reality is slightly different. Along with long hours of sleep, the quality of your ZZZzzz’s also matters.
The lesser your sleep continuity and sleep disruptions, the better will be your sleep quality. So, don’t just focus on getting 8 or 9 hours of sleep, also put effort into creating conducive surroundings so that you get restful sleep.
#Myth 3: I sleep with lights on, and I don’t think it is an issue
#Fact 3: The best way to sleep in a dark, cozy room
Sleeping with lights on ca n have negative effects on circadian rhythm. It can significantly improve your number of awakenings causing frequent breaks in sleep. So, keep your lights completely off or use low watt lights to keep your room dark and cozy.
#Myth 4: I nap during the day so it’s okay if sleep less at night
#Fact 4: Nap or siesta is not a substitute for a good night’s sleep
A quick nap can make you feel refreshed and improve your energy levels. However, it does not involve progression of sleep cycle where your body actually repairs itself. If you nap for too long, you will feel disoriented and sluggish. So, aim for getting quality sleep at a stretch. Naps are helpful but it shouldn’t be your go-to fix for less sleep.
#Myth 5: I sleep whenever I want. Timing doesn’t matter!
#Fact 5: What time of day you sleep matters a lot
The secretion of sleep-inducing hormones is influenced by natural sunlight in our surroundings. If your surroundings are lit up, you will not get good sleep. Similarly, if your surroundings are dark, warm, and cozy, you will be able to sleep properly. So, sleep at the right time, which is at night, to ensure you get a good, restful sleep and you can start your day with a lot of zing and energy.
#Myth 6: I cannot sleep so I will stay in bed until I can
#Fact 6: Get out of bed if you are only tossing and turning
If you are not getting any sleep 20 minutes after tossing and turning on the bed, then get up. Relax for a while in a quiet dim light. You can read a book or meditate. When you feel a little drowsy, then head to bed again and sleep. The more you struggle on the bed to sleep, the more restless you will feel.
#Myth 7: I directly go to sleep at night
#Fact 7: A nighttime routine is a great buildup for sleep
Our brain loves routine. It wants predictability and a safe environment to thrive in. So, go ahead and set a nighttime routine. It could be as simple as drinking water and brushing your teeth before bed. This way, the next time when you follow this set routine, your mind will automatically start preparing for bedtime. You will feel sleepy, and you will get deep, restful sleep.
Breaking free from the above myths and misconceptions about sleep is important to ensure you don’t follow any wrong practices before bedtime. You can also try non-addictive, naturally made three60 sound sleep gummies to get faster, deeper, and longer sleep. It is made with the world’s best KSM-66® Ashwagandha that helps you catch quality, uninterrupted sleep.
About The Author
Dr. Kriti Soni is a pharmaceutical scientist specialising in developing drug delivery systems and natural products
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