Technology surrounds us at every turn. From smartphones to tablets, computers to TVs, modern devices have become an integral part of our daily lives. While these advancements have undoubtedly brought about numerous benefits, there’s good evidence to show that using mobile phones, tablets, or computers – and even watching TV – when we go to bed can interfere with our normal sleep processes.
Research has shown a clear link between the use of electronic devices before bedtime and disruptions in sleep patterns. The blue light emitted by screens can suppress the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep-wake cycles, making it harder for individuals to fall asleep and achieve restorative sleep. Moreover, the stimulating content often consumed on these devices can further delay sleep onset and reduce overall sleep quality.
ProLongevity can assist you in regulating your lifestyle choices and ensuring you are putting your health first. If you would like to find out more, we would love to help and hear from you. You can book a free no-obligation consultation below and see how we can help you.
We know that sleep is a really important function for our bodies and has a huge impact on our mental and physical health. While we sleep, our brains form new pathways to help us learn and remember, to allow us to solve problems, make decisions, and to be creative. Having adequate sleep is essential for optimal cognitive function, problem-solving abilities, decision-making skills, and creativity.
Poor sleep can affect our intellectual performance, our emotional control, and behaviour, and our ability to cope with stress. Tired children and teenagers can have anger and impulse control issues and can have difficulty getting along with others.
If you are in a learning environment, which most children and adolescents are, it is even more important to sleep well because research shows that you need two consecutive good nights of sleep to consolidate the things you have learned. Even when information is learned initially, further good sleep is needed, as learned information is ‘filed’ into long-term memory during REM (dream) sleep. Sadly, many tired teens don’t get enough dream sleep to learn well. Moreover, sleep-deprived individuals are more prone to mood swings, irritability, and behavioural problems, which can strain interpersonal relationships and hinder social development.
Studies have shown that students who consistently get insufficient sleep are at a disadvantage academically compared to their well-rested peers. Sleep deprivation not only impairs learning retention but also undermines the ability to concentrate, participate actively in class, and engage in critical thinking.
Tips for Improving Sleep Quality
Despite the challenges posed by modern technology, there are steps individuals can take to promote better sleep hygiene and optimise their learning potential:
Establish a bedtime routine: Create a consistent sleep schedule and wind down before bed by engaging in relaxing activities, such as reading or listening to soothing music.
Limit screen time: Avoid using electronic devices at least an hour before bedtime to minimise exposure to blue light and stimulating content.
Create a sleep-friendly environment: Ensure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and comfortable, with a supportive mattress and pillows for a restful sleep.
Practice relaxation techniques: Incorporate relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or meditation, to ease stress and promote relaxation before bedtime.
Prioritise sleep: Recognise the importance of sleep in academic success and prioritise it alongside other commitments and responsibilities.
Diet and Eating: Make sure to eat well before you sleep and avoid sugary foods that can lead to blood sugar spikes before you sleep.
If you would like to talk to other people who may be struggling with sleep quality and lifestyle changes, you can join our Facebook group below!
Having a poor sleep quality and regime can disrupt the body’s ability to regulate glucose levels effectively, leading to insulin resistance; a sign of type 2 diabetes.
As individuals, it’s essential to find a balance between using technology and looking after our physical and mental well-being. By prioritising sleep and adopting healthy sleep habits, we can enhance our learning capabilities, improve cognitive function, and ultimately lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Here at ProLongevity, we aim to help you live healthier for longer. By changing your lifestyle from better sleep, to a better diet, we have helped reverse life-threatening diseases. Whether you suffer from diabetes or life-threatening diseases or want to prevent the occurrence, book a free 15-minute consultation with our founder Graham, and we can help you.
For more tips and information on getting a great night’s sleep, read our sleep blog.