Does Shift Work Support Good Health?
By Tom Herrin
In today's world, many people have fallen into some bad habits regarding their sleep habits. There are plenty of factors that contribute to this problem. People have so many activities that have varied demands on time that they have resorted to all sorts of things to alter it. Until the invention of the electric light bulb, most people set their day from sunup to sundown. This was a very natural fit and promoted a better sleep cycle. The circadian rhythm is one of those things that has to do with the natural cycle. Once it is disrupted, people may be subject to a variety of issues.
The Shift Work Dilemma
When people work shifts, they often suffer from several problems. For those who work swing shift, it means that they must reset their natural schedule every week or two. Some of the incentives for doing so are good in that they may have additional time off. The bad thing is that they may be more likely to have some problems that may involve safety. The rate of accidents is generally higher for those who must make that change.
Find Ways to Keep It Natural
It appears that many of the problems people have related to sleep and schedule may be associated with artificial light. Since it was invented and began to be used, innovative businessmen developed ways to keep their businesses operating around the clock. This meant that people had to work unnatural schedules. In these cases, they could no longer use natural light as a basis of their day. Some have suggested that those who work night shifts spend a little time walking around in the daylight to sort of recharge themselves. It could be a good alternative for them.
Make a Schedule That Offers a Break
If you work shifts, be certain to look for ways to make it as natural as possible. Many struggle with just how to live a more normal lifestyle as they must juggle their time. Paying special attention to getting some daylight when you are off may help. You will still have to deal with the effects of the swing, that is, finding ways to make something work that can allow you to spend some of that time off on a different schedule than you have when you work. It can be time well-spent as you are the one who will benefit the most.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Huntersville, N.C.