The winter season’s more comfortable temperatures and noticeably lower humidity levels are reasons to rejoice. However, this time of year, especially in the country’s northern regions, is characterized by extraordinarily low temperatures that make us want to hibernate. Have you ever given any thought to the question of why you need more sleep in the wintertime as opposed to the summertime? The reason for this is that, as stated by specialists in the field of sleep, our sleeping habits change depending on the time of year.
What May Cause That?
The circadian processes, which function as our body’s internal timekeeping cells, affect how we sleep. These “clock cells” coordinate the other circadian processes to optimize them for the environment. They do this by synchronizing with the environment using “zeitgebers,” which are German for “time clues,” such as light and ambient temperature. Alterations in temperature that occur over the course of a year impact the sleeping patterns and total amount of time that individuals get.
Changes in a person’s sleeping habits throughout different seasons are not unheard of. This is because light and darkness are essential in regulating human sleep cycles. Light has a direct impact on the parts of the brain that are responsible for regulating melatonin as well as the temperature of the body. Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone that is generated by the body. It is sometimes referred to as the “sleep hormone.” When the sun goes down, our bodies create more, which signals that it is time to sleep. However, when the sun is up, our bodies make less of it. If your melatonin levels are low when you wake up, it will be much simpler to drag yourself out of bed and start your day.
What Else You Need to Know
It is common knowledge that the number of daylight hours during the summer months is greater than the number of dark hours experienced during the winter months. This suggests that shifts in the timings of dawn and sunset may influence the generation of melatonin and, therefore, the times at which we generally experience feelings of exhaustion. Melatonin levels do not decrease to the same extent as in other seasons of the year, such as when it is light outdoors for just part of the day, as in the winter. Suppose our biological clock is unable to differentiate between day and night. In that case, we may have problems falling asleep at night and feel weary throughout the daytime.
How to Combat Sleeplessness in Winters?
This season, to aid you in regulating your sleep routine, it is recommended that you refrain from taking naps throughout the day, engage in consistent physical activity lasting 10 to 30 minutes, and expose yourself to light throughout the day.
During the winter, you should avoid overeating, especially after dinner, and you should also ensure that the temperature in your bedroom is perfect (you may use a humidifier if necessary).
When in doubt, one should seek the advice of an expert.
