How Light Impacts Your Sleep

By Stepy Kamei

It's no secret that sleep quality has been declining in recent years. We live hectic, fast-paced lives, and stress and anxiety are at all-time highs in our society. You've probably felt the detrimental effects that poor sleep can bring, so you know firsthand how important it is to make getting rest a priority. Light, in particular, can have a big impact on the quality of sleep and rest you're getting every night. Read on to learn more about the different types of light in our society (yes, there's more than one), and how light can intrude your rest and lead to detrimental health consequences as a result.

Sleeping With the Lights On

It's probably not a surprise to learn that sleeping with the lights on, whether it's done accidentally or on purpose, is simply not conducive to getting good sleep. Light -- whether it's from the sun, from floor and desk lamps, or from technology -- sends signals to the brain that it's time to stay awake and be alert. Therefore, if you're trying to sleep with the lights on, your brain will literally be getting mixed signals, and you won't achieve that deep sleep you really need to wake up feeling well-rested in the morning.

The only instance in which it might not be a bad idea to sleep with the lights on is if you're taking a very quick power nap in the middle of the day, and you want to avoid falling into a deep sleep.

More Info About Blue Light

Blue light -- or the light that's emitted from devices such as cell phones, television sets, and laptops -- is just as detrimental to your sleeping patterns as other forms of light. Blue light convinces you to stay alert and awake, sending specific signals to your eyes to encourage this.

Unfortunately, it's easier than ever to be impacted by blue light in today's society. Many of us bring our electronic devices with us into the bedroom before going to sleep.

How to Block Light From the Bedroom

Like most health and wellness customs, it's up to you to make a habit out of blocking all kinds of light from your bedroom in order to improve your sleep.

Make it a priority to leave all electronic devices out of the bedroom so that blue light doesn't impact your sleep. Furthermore, consider investing in blackout curtains, which can be especially helpful in blocking outside light from street lamps, neon signs, etc.

When you make sleep a priority, you'll be amazed at how more well-rested you feel each morning. People who get proper sleep report feeling more focused and energized throughout the day, with a reduced risk of overeating, fatigue, and moodiness.

To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Burlington, Mass.