Traveling can take us to new and exciting places, giving us a break from the daily grind and the opportunity to enjoy new experiences. However, in the midst of this emotion, there is a significant other that struggles to stay awake: our sleep. If you’re traveling across continents or just spending a night away from home, the quality of your sleep can have a significant effect on your trip. Rebecca Robbins, MMSc, PhD, MS, a member of the Equinox Health Advisory Council, shares her experience on how sleep is affected by travel and what the emerging trend of nighttime tourism means for travelers.
When we travel, our sleep is one of the first things that suffers, and there are many reasons for that. Rebecca Robbins, a member of Equinox’s Health Advisory Council, explores the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and environmental points that disrupt our sleep while traveling.
A significant disruptor is the “first night effect,” in which our brains remain partially alert due to inherent survival mechanisms, preventing us from entering deeper, more restorative stages of sleep. This heightened alertness is an evolutionary trait that has traditionally helped protect us. It protects us from potential risks in unfamiliar environments. As a result, travelers enjoy lighter sleep and more common awakenings on their first night in a new place.
Sensory adjustments in a new environment can further disrupt our sleep. Unfamiliar noises, whether from traffic, hotel air conditioning, or even other models of silence, as well as lighting, can disrupt our circadian rhythm, the internal clock that regulates our sleep-wake cycle. This disturbance makes it difficult to fall asleep and maintain a deep sleep.
Added to these demanding situations is the physical and mental strain of the journey. Sitting for long periods, whether on an airplane or in a car, can lead to physical discomfort and stiffness, while dry air in airplane cabins causes dehydration, contributing to a malaise that can keep us awake at night. Additionally, the strain of navigating new places, managing travel schedules, and waiting for or worrying about travel occasions can increase, making it especially difficult for us to relax at bedtime.
Jet lag due to time zone crossing exacerbates those disorders by desynchronizing our biological clock, making it difficult to fall asleep and wake up at socially appropriate times. Depending on the number of time zones traversed, adapting to local time can be a slow, extra-prolonging process of sleep disturbances.
Understanding those points allows travelers to better prepare for and manage sleep disturbances on their trip. Practical measures such as staying hydrated, engaging in relaxing activities before bed, and gradually adjusting sleep schedules before travel can help mitigate those effects and improve the overall travel experience. through ensuring greater rest.
The importance of sleep is increasingly recognized, which has led to the rise of sleep tourism. This trend includes improvements in sleep-focused services in hotels and the creation of sleep retreats. “Hotels are starting to realize that they’re not just promoting a room, they’re promoting a smart night’s sleep,” says Dr. Robbins. Sleep retreats are another facet of this trend, providing systems that raise awareness of sleep science and provide equipment for better sleep, in a serene environment that is ideal for relaxing. .
Equinox Hotels takes the concept of sleep tourism to new heights with its sleep-focused services. Designed to anticipate each guest’s wishes, their rooms and suites are best for various activities, from components to work, and especially for sleeping. It has also announced its Global Sleep Symposium, scheduled for June 19-20, which will bring together experts to discuss the transformative force of sleep. This symposium is part of their commitment to redefining sleep tourism through dynamic programming and cutting-edge research. .
Improving the quality of visitors’ sleep is rarely just about comfort – it’s a smart move. Robbins notes, “Only one-third of travelers are satisfied with their sleep while traveling, indicating a major area for improvement. Hotels that invest in better sleep reports see more visitors and consistent referrals, which especially affects their bottom line.
To help hotels improve their guests’ sleep experience, Dr. Robbins suggests several practical steps. Ensuring rooms can be completely dark, reducing noise, and maintaining a cool room temperature are key factors. It also emphasizes the importance of making an investment in quality. mattresses, pillows and bedding.
Dr. Robbins offers a number of solid tips for travelers looking to sleep on the road:
Understanding the effect of travel on sleep is very important to get the most out of our adventures. By prioritizing sleep, travelers can enjoy their vacation to the fullest and the hospitality industry can better meet their needs, ensuring that each and every vacation is as refreshing as expected. Whether you’re exploring a new city or retreating to a nonviolent hideaway, don’t forget that getting a good night’s sleep is your passport to a successful vacation.
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