Lack of sleep is often linked to an unhealthy lifestyle and poor health status (BMC Public Health 2006; 6:59). That’s because the body does the majority of its “repair” work overnight. Vaughan Chiropractic believes that a good night’s sleep is an integral part of the chiropractic lifestyle: a philosophy that focuses on preventing disease before it occurs. The following information provided below was gathered from the Optimal Health University which explains briefly the effects that bedroom television has on insomnia and other health complications.
Television light: Researchers have noted the negative effect of ambient (surrounding) environmental lighting on sleep/wake patterns. The study further explains that “disrupted sleep in hospitalized patients is widely reported and ambient environmental lighting may be both a contributor to and a modifier of sleep/wake patterns.” (Res Nurs Health 2007; 30:120-8).
Breast Cancer Link: Research also shows a link between nighttime exposures to artificial light and growth of breast tumors. This is why it is important to block out as much ambient light as possible- not only from glaring television screens but illuminated clocks and, in children’s bedrooms, glow-in-the-dark ceiling decorations.
How Much Sleep Is Enough?
Although everyone has a unique “body clock”, experts agree that most adults require eight to nine hours of sleep during a 24 hour period. For some individuals the best time to sleep is at night whereas others it is a combination of day and night based on their circadian rhythms. The key is to listen to your body and when you get in touch with your “body clock” work to maintain a regular sleep routine/schedule even on weekends. Research proves that consistency is principal to preventing fatigue and insomnia (Lancet 1999, 354:1435-9).
Factors to consider/choose in improving your quality of sleep:
- Sleeping at the right times
- Clearing your thoughts before sleeping so that you get a restful sleep
- Healthy sleep position either with a pillow or in the right posture
- Getting your spine checked and maintaining a healthy curve
- Incorporating a customized sleep surface
To learn more about how to sleep better, join Dr. Gus & team on Wednesday, August 29th, at 6:00pm, for our next Living Wellness Workshop!
