The change in the seasons can mean a drastic change in your sleep pattern. Millions of Americans wake up bright eyed and full of energy during the summer months but, can barely crawl out of bed by the middle of winter. Why is that? It is because the circadian rhythm that regulates your body’s inner clock craves sunlight and depends on it to boost our natural energy levels. When there is a lack of sunlight the body naturally feels sleepy. Let’s take a deeper look at how the seasons can impact your sleep.
Fall Through Winter
Colder months, especially northern latitudes, may require more than the standard 7- 8 hours of sleep to fully recharge. When the pituitary gland in your brain has little exposure to the sunlight, it produces more melatonin secretions, causing you to feel sluggish and lethargic. So, if the season have changed and you have noticed a change in your sleep cycle, rest assured, it is not uncommon for this time of year.
Spring Through Summer
When the weather is warm, the days are longer and more enjoyable. This also means your body has more of a chance to gain exposure to the natural source of Vitamin D, sunlight. When sunlight stimulates the pituitary gland, it halts that sluggish melatonin from secreting, allowing you to feel active and lively.
S.A.D disorder
Although
getting enough sleep is healthy and highly recommended, getting too much can
also be unhealthy. S.A.D is a disorder that can be disguised as tiredness,
depression, or social withdrawal but, can actually be something far more
serious. An overwhelming percentage of people who complain of winter
hypersomnia, have been found to experience S.A.D. to some degree. If you
recognize these symptoms you may need to consider consulting a sleep study
specialist.
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Peer withdrawal
- Insomnia
- Hopelessness
- Hypersomnia
If you believe what you are experiencing can be more than just a sleepless night, or a reaction to the change in the weather, you may need to have a sleep study performed to discover the root of the issue. If you are experiencing trouble falling or staying asleep, come see us at the Jacksonville Sleep Center where Zzz’s take precedents.
