Are you finding it challenging to resist the urge to check your phone before bed? You’re not alone. Many of us struggle with this habit, which can disrupt our sleep. However, a recent study published in PLoS One suggests that making a simple change in your bedtime routine can lead to better sleep. By putting your phone away just 30 minutes before bedtime, you can experience significant improvements in the quality and duration of your sleep. In this article, we’ll explore the findings of this study and provide practical tips to help you create a phone-free sleep routine that promotes restful nights.
A quick disclaimer, though: There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to improving sleep. While this study supports the idea of restricting phone use before bed, everyone’s sleep patterns and preferences are unique. What works for one person may not work for another. However, if you’re someone who likes to rely on data and evidence, these study findings may inspire you to give this approach a try.
1. The Logic Behind Reducing Phone Use
Reducing phone use before bed goes beyond minimising exposure to blue light. It also helps reduce exposure to emails, texts, videos, and social media posts that can induce stress and heighten arousal. The study revealed that the 30-minute phone ban before sleep significantly reduced pre-sleep arousal, making it easier for you to relax and fall asleep.
2. Beware of Falling Asleep Too Early
Engaging in activities that make you feel sleepy too early can disrupt your sleep routine and negatively impact the quality of your rest throughout the night. Falling asleep before your regular bedtime can throw off your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Therefore, it’s important to maintain consistency and avoid sleep disruptions by sticking to your regular bedtime.
3. Embrace Small Changes
Instead of completely turning off your phone at 7 p.m., which might feel overwhelming, start with the more manageable task of putting the phone away just 30 minutes before bed. It’s crucial to gauge your readiness and willingness to adopt this change on a scale of 1 to 10. If 30 minutes seems challenging, start with a smaller timeframe, like 25 minutes, and gradually work your way up. By shrinking the task, you increase the likelihood of success and build momentum.
4. Adjusting the Task Size
Even if you initially believe a task is the right fit, it’s possible that it may still be too large. The only way to determine this is by giving it a try. If a task proves to be consistently challenging, it’s time to shrink it even more. This is where the “pfffft” test comes in. Make the task so small that you might think, “Pfffft! That’s it?” Finding the right-sized task ensures a higher chance of success.
5. Recognise the Power of Change
We often overestimate our ability to change habits and routines. Starting with the 1-10 scale allows for a more realistic assessment and helps you discover whether a task you thought would be easy is actually challenging. This experience can be enlightening and help you adjust your expectations. Additionally, setting a “bare minimum goal” and a “stretch goal” enables you to have a target even on your toughest weeks while still pushing yourself when conditions are favourable.
By committing to putting your phone away 30 minutes before bed, you can enhance the quality and duration of your sleep. While this study offers valuable insights, it’s essential to remember that individual responses to sleep strategies may vary. Experiment with different approaches and find what works best for you. Incorporating small changes and adjusting the task size can lead to meaningful progress over time. Take control of your sleep routine and experience the rejuvenating benefits of a good night’s sleep.
References:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0228756
