Impact of Diwali lights on sleep

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is a joyous occasion celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor by millions of people around the world. The festival marks the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, and it is traditionally celebrated by lighting oil lamps, candles, and colorful lanterns. However, as beautiful as these decorations may be, they can sometimes disrupt our sleep patterns. This Diwali, let’s explore the importance of sleep-friendly lighting options, and some tips on how to make your celebrations both festive and sleep-friendly.

Impact of Diwali lights on sleep

The dazzling and mesmerizing lights during Diwali not only adorn your home but also affect your sleep quality. Have a detailed look here:

• Melatonin Suppression

Melatonin is a hormone present in the body responsible for the sleep-wake cycle. This hormone can be affected when exposed to more blue light via a phone, laptop, TV, etc., making it difficult to fall asleep.

• Irregular Sleep Schedule

Irregular sleep patterns adversely affect your sleep cycle and overall well-being, and the Diwali celebration often involves late-night parties, fireworks, and other family & friends get-togethers.

• Increased Alertness

Diwali is associated with excitement and noise that keep you alert and awake making it hard for you to unwind and relax for a good night’s sleep.

Once you know the specific reasons affecting your sleep cycle it becomes easy to tackle your sleep. Below are a few sleep-friendly lighting options for Diwali:

1. Dim the lights

During Diwali, one of the most effective ways to create a sleep-friendly environment is to dim the lights. Bright and harsh lighting can disrupt the body’s production of melatonin. Consider using,

→ Candles: Candles provide a gentle and cozy glow, perfect for winding down in the evening. Opt for soft, warm-toned candles placed in a safe holder.

→ Table Lamps: You can also place low-wattage table lamps in bedrooms and common areas. These lamps will provide a soft, ambient light that promotes a relaxing atmosphere and conduce sleep.

→ String Lights: We can even make use of string lights by hanging them indoors or outdoors. Choose warm white LEDs for a soft and dreamy atmosphere. Warm white lights emit more of a smoothing glow, which is less likely to disrupt your sleep pattern. String lights create a cozy and festive ambiance without the harshness of cooler tones.

2. Utilize soft nightlights

If you have kids at home who are afraid of complete darkness, then consider using soft nightlights. These are gentle sources of illumination that do not disrupt your sleep. Look for nightlights with adjustable brightness settings.

3. Invest in Smart Lighting

Another new trend that is creating a buzz in the lighting industry is Smart Lighting. Smart Lighting allows you to control your lights remotely. You can adjust the setting from warm to cool tones and vice versa as per your requirement. Some popular Smart Lighting includes Philips, Wipro, and Wi-Fi-connected bulbs.

4. Avoid excessive flashing lights

Blinking and flashing lights are an integral part of Diwali. However, these lights disrupt your sleep with the continuous blinking. Avoid such lights in the bedroom, and opt for gentle or intermittent blinking if possible.

5. Make use of curtains and blinds

Install blackout curtains and blinds in your bedroom to block external light sources, which include bright decorative lights outside or street lights. This will create a dark and preferable environment for sleeping.

6. Create a relaxing atmosphere

During Diwali, focus on creating a relaxing atmosphere. Make use of scented candles, or essential oil diffusers that promote relaxation and sleep.

7. Establish a bedtime routine

Following a consistent bedtime routine signals it’s time to wind down. Dim the lights gradually as nighttime approaches. Before bedtime, read a book and practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing to help you relax and prepare for sleep.

8. Limit Screen Time

Reduce your exposure to screens, including using a phone, TV, laptop, tablet, etc leading up to bedtime. The blue light emitted by these devices hampers your sleep.

9. Earplugs or white noise

If noise from Diwali celebrations is a concern, consider using earplugs or white noise machines to eradicate disruptive sounds and create a peaceful sleep environment.

10. Create a comfortable bed

Apart from lighting, creating a comfortable bed plays an important role in how well you can fall asleep. While creating a comfortable bed seems obvious, it is often overlooked: Your mattress, pillows, and sheets play an important role in how well you sleep. Since all bedding created will equally work for everyone, you will have to try and test the best mattress for you. Simply search for The Sleep Company and through various ranges of mattresses and get exclusive Diwali offers!

Conclusion

Diwali is a time for celebration, joy, and togetherness, but it's also essential to prioritize your sleep and well-being. By choosing sleep-friendly lighting options and following some simple tips, you can strike a balance between celebrating this beautiful festival and ensuring you get the rest you need. Remember that a well-rested you is better equipped to fully enjoy the festivities and create cherished memories with your loved ones during Diwali. Wishing you a happy and sleep-filled Diwali!