Update on Date : 13-March-2021

This year 19th March is celebrated as World Sleep Day. Every year the World Sleep Day falls on the Friday before the northern hemisphere vernal equinox. World Sleep Day commemorates the benefits of healthy sleep and emphasizes on prevention and management of sleep disorders.

Our sleep cycles have become disturbed and we are spending more time on screen. Screen time is the amount of time spent using a device with a screen such as a smartphone, computer, television, or video game. The concept is under significant research and studies show that screen time directly impacts mental and physical health. Staring into a screen for extended periods of time can cause familiar symptoms including, but not limited to strained dry eyes, blurred vision, headaches and insomnia. Poor posture can also cause stiff neck, shoulder pain and back pain. Instead, take breaks from sitting to walk around, stand or stretch.

Melatonin is produced by our brain’s pineal gland and controls our internal clock i.e. body’s circadian rhythm. Melatonin levels increase as the sun sets and remain at that increased state for the remainder of the night. As the sun rises, melatonin levels start to drop. This helps the body’s natural rhythm wake up with the bursts of natural sunlight. Balanced levels of melatonin are known to improve sleep quality, restfulness, regulate circadian rhythm, and ease negative feelings associated with anxiousness.

Let us remember on this World Sleep Day that healthy sleep is incredibly important for our health. A comfortable sleeping position is on your left side, curling your legs and placing a pillow between your knees. So sleep tight and good night!