Nothing is more comforting than waking up in a warm and toasty bed during the winter. It can also make it incredibly difficult to get out of bed too. If you feel that you’re sleepier during wintertime, you would be surprised to learn that there are several reasons behind your drowsiness. Here are a few reasons why you want to sleep more during the winter and how you can stay energized.
Changes in Sunlight
When daylight savings time ends, it can help you have an abundance of energy in the morning, but you may feel exhausted before 6 pm. Earlier sunsets can cause you to be sleepier long before you think you should be. Sunlight exposure and artificial lighting during the day are stimulating, helping you to feel alert and awake. When the sun sets earlier, you may be yawning hours before you’ve had a chance to binge-watch your favorite series. If you feel tempted to turn in earlier during the winter, changes in sunlight can be a reason why.
Eating More
Winter is flush with opportunities to munch on delicious goods. The problem with chowing down on holiday favorites is that they are often packed with carbs and sugar, both of which can make you drowsy. Also, some studies suggest that wintertime makes people consume heavier meals, usually close to bedtime. Eating heavy meals before turning in increases your chances of being woken up by acid reflux or integration. If you consume fluids before bed, bathroom trips in the middle of the night will disrupt your sleep, leading to daytime grogginess.
Although you may feel the urge to stuff yourself, try to limit your portion sizes, and be wary of eating large meals before going to sleep.
Seasonal Affective Disorder
You’re on to something if you believe that a lack of sunlight may cause sluggishness. Winter can often bring cloudy, dreary conditions, which can not only make you sleepy but also affect your mood. This condition is known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and impacts many people during the winter. SAD symptoms can include increases in depression, anxiety, and tiredness.
But, speaking with a professional can help you determine the strategies you need to help get a restful night’s sleep. Don’t hesitate to contact our office to learn more about getting a healthy amount of sleep. Please schedule a consultation by calling us today at 212-873-6036.