We have all been there. You are laying in your bed, snuggled into a great book and then, boom. The next thing you know five hours have passed and you’re not sure when you even fell asleep. It starts out with a slow drooping of the eyes and you begin to be lulled to bed. Why does this always seem to happen? Is there something about reading that just makes us tired? Studies show that reading before bed can actually help you to fall asleep at night.
Make sure to read up on common sleep disorders and contact your sleep doctor in New York City if you think you may be suffering from a serious condition that is affecting your day to day health.
It Unplugs Us
Do you normally fall asleep to the screen of your laptop? Turns out falling asleep attached to our screens is quite unhealthy for our sleeping schedules. We don’t think it is bed time because the light from the screen is tricking our senses and telling us it is still time to be awake. The harsh light also strains our eyes, affecting our sleep and harming the health of our eyes.
That is why when we trade the laptop for a book, we feel really sleepy. Books are not electronic and do not have the same harsh effect that laptop screens have. This is less straining (less work) for our eyes. Reading helps us to mentally slow down, relax physically and put as at ease, priming us for a restful night’s sleep.
It Becomes Routine
Routines never fail to help us to fall asleep. Our sleep schedules are set up based on patterns and when we follow those patterns, we get into natural rhythms that regulate sleep. If you read every night before you go to bed, that becomes part of your bedtime routine. So, when you start reading, your body knows that it is time to start transitioning into sleep mode.
If you want to keep your routine fresh and exciting, switch up the times of day you read your books. Try starting off your morning with your favorite book and a cup of coffee.
It Occurs in Comfort
Picture the place you read most. Is it your bed? The couch? A hammock? What do all of these places have in common? They are comfortable, personal spaces. We often, if not always, read in spaces that are incredibly comfortable, because it is an enjoyable activity. The comfort of the space makes it much easier to fall asleep.
Try reading while standing up, it’s not quite the same, is it? Even sitting at a desk chair, your posture will make you more alert and attentive and less likely to fall asleep.
It Relaxes our Bodies
Reading calms the mind. This is the number one reason we fall asleep when we read. Reading takes your mind off all the other stressors in your life and transports you into a different world entirely. When we do not have the weight of the world on our shoulders, we can more effectively relax. The tension leaving our bodies will immediately calm us down and remove most of your nervous energy.
Sleep Doctor New York City
Curious about your health and what you can do to better improve your overall well-being? The professional and talented staff with Dr. Shukla are here to help. With years of experience supporting the premier sleep doctor in New York City behind us, our professional team is ready to assist you with all your sleeping concerns. Call today to schedule an appointment!
