Have you noticed that during the warmer months you have a harder time falling and staying asleep than in the winter? Falling asleep when it starts to get hot outside and the sun sets later is more difficult. If you’re curious as to why that is and want to work on ways to sleep better during the summer, keep reading.
Hot Temperatures
Falling asleep and getting REM sleep is more difficult when you’re overheated. Before you head to bed, turn down the air conditioner and use a lighter blanket during the summer months.
Moving the Clock
With the days longer and the sun setting later, your circadian rhythm can be thrown off making it hard to fall asleep and get a good night’s sleep. Prepare for daylight’s savings time by going to bed and waking up a half-hour earlier than usual leading up to the time change.
Seasonal Allergies
The warmer months bring on a whole new set of seasonal allergies which make it difficult to breathe and sleep well. Talk to your doctor about allergy medication and make some changes around your home like sleeping with the window closed to relieve your symptoms.
Summer Vacation
When you’re on vacation you want to use all hours of the day to explore new things, but while you’re doing this you’re interrupting your sleep. Waking up for a sunrise yoga retreat or staying up all night to star gaze affects your sleep, especially if you’re in a country with a different time zone. While on vacation, try your best to maintain your normal sleep schedule to make the transition back into your daily life easier.
