The circadian rhythm regulates our sleep cycle based on the light-and-dark cycle of the sun by a part of the brain called the suprachiasmatic nucleus, found in the hypothalamus. Several environmental and personal factors send cues to this master “body clock,” such as the amount of light exposure, exercise, and temperature. Our core body temperature drops about 2 degrees, reaching its lowest point in the early morning, gradually warming up as the morning progresses. The optimal sleep temperature is between 60 and 67° F, which allows the body to exert less energy in regulating itself, ultimately offering you more prosperous sleep! Here are a few tips from our HVAC experts at Newark-Heath Heating & Cooling on ensuring your sleep this summer contributes to a healthier and happier lifestyle!
How Do I Combat Indoor Allergens?
Do you ever wake up in a sneezing fit or with a stuffy nose? Spring may be over, but if you are still stuffed up and sneezing, welcome to summer allergy season. Allergies, no matter the season, are anything but fun! For those suffering from these allergies, you may see the effects it has on your sleep quite clearly. Up to 40% of Americans suffer from allergies, and individuals with allergies are more than twice as likely to have insomnia. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports four major indoor air pollutants to be:
- Excess Moisture- The moisture level during the summer is relatively high, especially here in Ohio.
- Volatile Organic Compounds= VOCs are gases emitted from certain solids or liquids. VOCs can have short- and long-term adverse effects on your health. Many VOC concentrations are up to ten times higher than those outdoors.
- Carbon Monoxide- When exposed to CO gas, CO molecules can and will remove the oxygen from our bodies and lead to poisoning, which can often be fatal.
- Radon- Radon derives from the natural decay of uranium found in nearly all soil. Radon can move up through the ground, enter the air above, and access your home through cracks/holes in the foundation. When trapped inside, radon can build up and cause lung cancer in anyone exposed to this harmful gas.
Therefore, these pollutants not only result in a damp and stuffy home, but they also can make indoor air more dangerous to you than that of the outdoors. Here are three ways the EPA recommends improving indoor air quality:
- Control Contact With Airborne Indoor Allergens
- Home Interior Ventilation
- Utilizing Indoor Air Cleaners
Thankfully, improvements in HVAC technology have led to increasingly better indoor environments that benefit everyone residing within.
What Impact Does Quality Sleep Have On Energy Levels?
Replacing your air filter and having your HVAC system routinely serviced professionally can contribute to long-term energy savings. But what about physical energy savings? It is not only essential to take care of our HVAC needs, but our body’s needs too. Studies have shown that poor sleep contributes to overeating. For instance, when your body cannot conserve energy during a good night’s sleep, it will demand more food to function. Additionally, you will feel sluggish and unmotivated to keep physically active throughout the day. Lack of exercise, poor sleep, and overeating contribute significantly to obesity and, as a result, often lead to depression. An endless cycle of these things can severely harm your overall health. It is alarming how negatively lack of sleep can impact one’s quality of life.
How Does Sleeping Attire Impact Sleep?
Let’s get real, at the end of a strenuous day, all anyone wants to do is slip into something a little more comfortable and call it a night. Choosing the best sleepwear can help ensure you remain comfortable throughout the night. While cotton pajamas may seem nice and cozy, it is no surprise that they can be less than optimal in the summertime. To optimize comfort and sleep, opt-in choosing silk over cotton. Why? For one, silk is lighter and smoother than flannel and cotton on your skin. Silk also retains your skin’s natural moisture, better regulating your body temperature, and keeping you cool throughout the summer. Furthermore, silk is hypoallergenic and promotes better blood circulation, delaying aging. If faced with cotton or silk, always choose silk!
These are just a few helpful tips to assist you and your loved ones in ensuring this summer is restful and prosperous for everyone. So don’t delay. If you are struggling to get the proper sleep necessary for living a happy and productive lifestyle, call Newark-Heath Heating & Cooling today at (740) 212-5849, or schedule an appointment now by clicking here! Our educated HVAC professionals can help transform your home environment into a well-deserved sanctuary!
