What is the Sleep-Wake Cycle & Why Do We Need Sleep?
We spend the majority of our time sleeping and the cycle of our sleep-wake cycles of our bodies determines that our bodies have to rest, and also when it needs to remain awake.
Every species has its own sleep-wake cycle. However, in the case of humans concerned, our 24 hour sleep-wake cycle is split into an 8:16 ratio which means that our body is asleep for 8 hours and in a state of alert during 16 hours.
We know that ideals and reality frequently don’t always sit on the same level and there are a myriad of factors that could alter the ratio of sleep-wake cycles and, in the current moment we’re putting an overall level of lack.
The cycle of sleep and wake ensures that our body is able remove the metabolic waste from the brain in the night, so that it is able to perform at its maximum capacity the next day.
There are many body functions that are specifically executed while we’re asleep. Healing and repairing damage is just one of these functions.
The body’s various parts and even our brain require an hour of rest and recuperation after a long day. This is crucial for restoring physical strength and strengthening our immune system.
Prior to that time, when electricity was invented, and before the dawn of the modern sleep revolution we were almost forced other than to rest at evening and work done during the day, when the sun was shining.
A majority of our work and vocations were scheduled for the days, so it was relatively easy for every one of us to keep an essentially regular, but not perfect, sleep-wake cycle.
We now have electricity and an abundance of gadgets that emit light that can assist us to complete tasks even in the darkness of the night.
This has resulted in many different industries splitting their workforce into shifts which allows them to operate throughout the day.
There are various types of shifts. The one that employees work in. It typically begins around 8 am, and runs until at 6 at night. Then, we have morning shifts, evening shifts in afternoon, evening shifts as well as graveyard shifts.
Other than those who work 8 am – 6 pm shifts, the majority of shift workers are injured or a sleep-wake cycle disruptions.
This is due to the fact that the body is required to sleep for 8 hours of rest during the night hours in the summer when sunlight is shining since sunlight plays an important part for the control of the sleep-wake cycle.
People who work shifts frequently require night’s sleep and be awake through the night; many of people are susceptible to being affected by Shift Work Sleep Disorder (SWSD).
Individuals suffering from sleep disorders that affect the shifts are often tired and disoriented when they work. Additionally, it causes impairment in memory and reduces cognitive function and reduces their performance.
There are a variety of health risks associated to Shift work-related sleep disorders, such as a greater chance of developing heart disease as well as fatigue, body pain, insomnia, chronic fatigue syndrome and sleepiness that is excessive.
How do I deal with Sleep disorders during shifts and reduce the health risks associated to it?
If you’re worried that you could be at risk of developing the condition known as Shift Work-Sleep Disorder (SWSD) or are experiencing numerous medical as well as productivity concerns due to your shifts that are late at night or rotate if you are concerned, you must seek an appointment with your doctor.
Your doctor might also recommend certain tips, such as staying in a dark place in the daytime or getting ample sunlight in the daytime to improve your sleep-wake cycle and counter the negative effects that are caused by a lack of sleeping at night.
Complete darkness in your bedroom and also lowering the temperature is thought to also help you get more restful sleep throughout the day.
A regular nap and avoiding from eating food that is too close to your bedtime throughout the day as well as at night can aid in getting better rest and ensure that your sleep-wake cycle is working properly.
Interesting Related Article: ” The Consequences Of Not Getting Enough Sleep: How It Affects Your Life“