We often feel tired when the days get shorter again, and the temperatures drop. Why is that?
When the evening comes earlier, the night stays longer, and the leaves turn brown – yes, it has become autumn, although this year’s summer does not seem to end. Many people have trouble falling asleep or waking up during this time. Lisa Artis is a sleep expert and CEO of the British “Sleep Charity” and explains in an interview with “Metro” why we have such a hard time sleeping in autumn.
Sleep problems in autumn: Biology works against us
The sleep expert explains, “In the fall, it gets darker in the evening, which means melatonin (the sleep hormone) is produced earlier and makes us sleepy. It’s also darker in the morning, which keeps melatonin levels up, making us sleepy throughout the day.”
The natural light, which we miss out on because of the shorter days, really wakes our bodies. It signals to it that it’s time to wake up and get active!
A disarranged sleep rhythm makes getting up and falling even more complicated, so you should maintain good sleeping habits, especially during this time. These include:
You are going to sleep and waking up at approximately the same time so that you can speak of a rhythm!
Forswearing screens and other bright light sources an hour before going to bed. Our body also sends “wake signals” through their light.
Avoid alcohol; it reduces the quality of sleep immensely!
Minor optimizations of eating habits to promote ideal sleep.
The right food to help you sleep
Lisa Marley is a nutritionist; she recommends getting a good night’s sleep and an equally good diet, which prepares our body for horizontal rest: “To feel more energetic, make sure you eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, proteins and healthy fats.”
Also, drink enough water and take vitamin D supplements if needed, as a deficiency and dehydration can tire you.
Sleep problems: study shows alarming results in Austria
Before the winter comes, cleaning out your daily routine and habits is advisable. The cold months are also dark and complex, so sleeping well and eating just as well is essential. So that our head remains free – to process the gray soup which greets us in the coming months instead of the sun in the morning.
- source: k.at/picture: Bild von thank you for ???? auf Pixabay
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