World Sleep Day 18 March – Practical Steps for Better Sleep

moon and stars with two z letters

To mark World Sleep Day on 18 March here are some practical ways to ensure a better night’s sleep.  

Why Late-Night Binge Watching is Disturbing your Sleep  

Sorry to be the bearer of unwelcome news, but those late-night movie binges, internet surfing or social media scrolling diminish the chance of a restful night.   

Studies have shown people who stream content at bedtime take longer to fall asleep. Why? The brain remains engaged and aroused because it is still processing what you have just watched long after you have switched off the screen, keeping you awake. This is called pre-sleep arousal good night’s sleep. 

Tablets, laptops, and smart phones all emit blue light which the body perceives as daylight, tricking your brain into staying wide awake and alert. 

 

Blue Light Filters to the Rescue 

If you cannot break the habit of binge watching and still want a good night’s sleep, then blue light filters can minimise the stimulating effects.  

 

To schedule blue filters on iPads, go to: 

Settings > Display and Brightness > Nightshift > Scheduled > From & To > then adjust light between Less Warm or More Warm 

 

To immediately reduce blue light on iPads, go to:  

Settings > Display and Brightness > Nightshift > Manually Enabled Until Tomorrow > Adjust light between Less Warm or More Warm 

You can also download a range of apps to help adjust sleep patterns for shift work. One-off or subscription charges from the app developer may apply.  

 

Top Technical iPad Tips 

Apps from the Apple Store will need an Apple ID to download on the iPad. Learn how to create one HERE. 

Get the best performance from work and personal apps by having the latest iOS software installed on the iPad. Find out how to update it HERE.