12/19/2025
The festive season brings joy, but also disrupted circadian rhythms.
Late nights, rich meals, alcohol, and irregular schedules can significantly impact sleep quality. At our Sleep Centre, we encourage protecting your sleep health—even during the holidays.
Evidence-based tips for better Christmas sleep:
• Maintain circadian consistency
Try to keep bedtimes and wake times within 60–90 minutes of your usual schedule to prevent circadian misalignment.
• Mind alcohol timing
Alcohol may induce sleep onset but fragments REM sleep and increases nocturnal awakenings. Avoid alcohol within 3–4 hours of bedtime.
• Light exposure matters
Bright festive lighting late at night suppresses melatonin. Dim lights in the evening and get morning daylight exposure to reinforce your sleep–wake cycle.
• Be cautious with late meals
Heavy, high-fat meals close to bedtime increase gastroesophageal reflux and sympathetic activation. Aim to finish eating at least 2–3 hours before sleep.
• Protect your sleep environment
Keep the bedroom cool (16–19°C), dark, and quiet—even if the house is busy. Sleep thrives on routine and calm.
• Prioritise sleep for immune health
Adequate sleep enhances immune function—especially important during winter and flu season.
This Christmas, remember: sleep is not a luxury, it’s a biological necessity. A well-rested body celebrates better.
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