Photo by Kate Morin
More than half of us hit the hay with our laptops, continuing to work from bed for 2 to 6 hours per week. But beware: All that bedroom overtime could add up to less than stellar sleep. Artificial light from gadgets post-sundown can interfere with the body’s production of melatonin, which in turn could keep us from snoozing with ease. Not to mention those flickering screens keep us alert — shifting our circadian rhythms and keeping us from heading to bed at a reasonable hour.
To keep the bedroom a relaxing, stress-free zone, kick out any reminders of the work day including laptops, TVs, exercise equipment, and yes, cell phones. Unplug any electronics 45 to 60 minutes before bed to help wind down, and allow only sex and sleep in the bed!
The Takeaway: The bedroom should be reserved for sex and sleep. Leave out any reminders of the busy day ahead, and lose the electronics.
Can We Make Up For Lost Sleep?
Studies suggest we ought to be getting 7 to 9 hours each night, but if your sleep was cut short last night, you may still be able to make it up. That whole month of missed sleep, however? Not so much…
Fun Fact:
More than a third of Americans say they don’t get enough sleep.
