Weather & Good Sleep Patterns

Though many aspects of good sleep can be controlled, the weather.  In fact changes to temperature, atmospheric pressure, humidity, and precipitation just might affect you more than you think.

 In the winter, less daylight can mean less Vitamin D.  This vitamin is important for bones and muscles, and it also involved in serotonin production.  This is vital for developing good sleep patterns.  If you work inside, it's recommended you get 16 minutes of sun if you have fair skin.  It's about 20 minutes more for dark-skinned people.  This is the projected amount of time to absorb 2000 IU of Vitamin D with 25% of skin exposed.

Meantime, temperature plays a big role with sleep and circadian rhythms.  The ideal temperature for good rest is between 60 and 70 degrees.  Keep in mind warm, humid air can do the opposite.  Keeping the air circulating can be a big help.  Also using lightweight bedding and pajamas can also assist you in achieving your goal of good sleep. 

Thunderstorms can cause sleep apnea to worsen not to mention asthma, according to one study.  White noise machines might help here or even relaxation techniques.

Changes in barometric pressure can be another influence.  Research suggests higher pressure, and perhaps higher humidity, can cause greater arthritis pain while lower pressure may trigger migraines. 

Allergies can play a big role with sleep too.  Did you know antihistamines tend to cause initial drowsiness?  However, they can impair overall sleep quality, some doctors admit. Keep in mind cough syrups with alcohol can also impair deep sleep cycles. 

In cold climates, a humidifier on low can be helpful since dry air can bother sinuses and perhaps lead to colds. 

Obviously one way to help sleep is dealing with controllable factors.  In other words, keep the bedrooms dark and cool, bedding comfortable, inside humidity moderate, and stick to a regular sleeping schedule to help support your natural circadian rhythms.