South Africa is synonymous with sunshine and outdoor living. As the days get colder, and the sun sets earlier, many people start to lament the end of summer. One of the best things about winter coming for many however is the prospect of better sleep.
There are a number of plusses with the winter months. There are fewer mosquitos, for one. It is a time for cooking soups and stews and warm nourishing food. The nights are cool and dark, and it makes for a better sleep.
Sunny South Africa
In South Africa we are blessed with abundant sunshine. Even in the winter months it is more than likely that we will have a sunny day. In fact 70% of our daylight hours are sunny.
We also have a moderate climate without huge extremes between the seasons. Of course the way you experience the seasons depends on where you are in our vast country. In general though our climate is a temperate one.
Autumn changes
The seasonal changes of autumn can be seen all around us. The signs include the dropping temperature, especially at night and in the early mornings. The quality of the light begins to change; shadows lengthen and the sky fades a little from it’s summer blue. And it begins to get dark earlier in the evening, and light later in the morning.
The change in season has a big impact on the plant and animal life around us. Many trees begin to lose their leaves; some birds gather to migrate to warmer climes. Although the impact of the changing seasons is not as marked for us humans, we do not escape the effects altogether.
The impact of winter on humans
In Northern countries one of the biggest impacts of winter is the onset of SAD: seasonal affective disorder. This is a kind of depression that brings moodiness, tiredness, a loss of interest. The most common treatment for SAD is light therapy- the use of bright lamps to provide the much-needed light lacking in the fall and winter months.
This disorder is less common in South Africa as we don’t have grey days one after the other. Our daylight hours are also not dramatically shortened. There are many however who dislike the winter: on the Highveld the cold, dry air can be unpleasant; in the Cape the wind and wet can make life miserable.
How can you get better sleep this winter?
There are a few things you can do to make sure you get better sleep this winter. Our top picks are:
• No screen time late at night
• Eating properly and getting enough exercise
• Following a rhythm by going to sleep and waking at the same time
• Regulating your bedroom temperature to between 15 and 19 degrees
• Having a comfortable bed and pillow
Is your bed right for better sleep?
If you are tossing and turning at night, the chances are you need a new bed. The lifespan of a mattress is between 7 and 10 years. Your bed may no longer be giving you optimal support.
At Bedworld we have a range of quality options to suit every pocket. If you know what you want you can shop our online store. Our online chat function is also there to help if you have questions or need assistance. You can also call us or send us an email and a salesperson will contact you.
Make this the winter you get better sleep. Let it be a time to rest and rejuvenate, enjoying quality time with friends and family.