Due to the advent of electronics like mobile devices, tablets, and computers (not to mention streaming TV), insomnia seems to be at epidemic proportions. People honestly do believe they’re getting more done because they think they’re multitasking. They’re watching TV, talking to people on social media, checking their work email, and shopping all at once, instead of relaxing as they should be. It's time to power off your electronics and give yourself a break.
This isn’t helping you at all. The truth is, all you’re doing is destroying your circadian rhythm. Humans need light and dark at certain times in order to feel well rested and energetic throughout the day.
The Circadian Rhythm
A circadian rhythm is an internal 24-hour clock that all humans have. It’s always running and is always aware. It can get out of whack due to artificial lighting in your home, in addition to the electronics we use such as mobile devices, televisions, and computer screens. Essentially, all screens can interfere with your cycle if you aren’t careful. Some people are more susceptible to problems than others. But everyone is affected one way or another - even if it’s just having your mind being stimulated 24/7 without a break.
It’s important to remember, in terms of energy, that peaks and valleys throughout the day are normal. Almost everyone experiences the 3 pm slump and almost everyone experiences that time before the slump that happens several hours after waking for the day, when they are at peak performance getting work done very fast. Ideally, you want to learn and understand your circadian rhythm and how it works so you can be most energetic during the time you need to be.
The Benefit of Turning Off Electronics
One way to avoid affecting your natural 24-hour rhythm is to start turning off electronics at least an hour or two before bedtime. If you want to go to bed at 10 pm, then you’ll want to shut your electronics and television down by 8 to 9 pm each evening. This can be difficult for some people because those are prime TV watching hours. But, it’s okay because today you can record everything or watch it at a different time using streaming services. Your sleep cycle is more important, and you can watch those things any time you want to.
Not only will shutting down pay off in terms of your family relationships, it will also help you find time to take care of yourself and get more sleep. The following day when you get up, you’re going to feel a lot more rested and therefore more energized.
If you want to improve your life in a big way, this is one thing that will make a huge difference. Besides, wouldn’t it be nice to be able to give each thing you do 100 percent attention rather than always having an ear out for the signal that you got another social media post or email? Try it for at least 14 days to see how you feel.
Coming Next
Next time, learn about the perfect temperatures for sleeping, learning, and staying awake and invigorated.