You feel sleepy all day at work or school, yet when you hit the bed, you magically can't fall asleep.
It's World Sleep Day again. Statistics show that 27% of people have sleep issues, with 50% of them not receiving proper diagnosis or treatment. As modern life accelerates, sleep problems have become a common societal ailment.Sleep issues significantly impact both physical and mental health. At best, they hinder daily work and life; at worst, they foster negative mental states and affect overall wellbeing.
Getting a good night's sleep every day is no longer commonplace—it has become a luxury for modern people.
In truth, quality sleep stems from scientific understanding. Only by "understanding" sleep can one achieve good sleep quality.
To discuss sleep quality, we must start with the sleep process itself.The normal sleep cycle comprises two distinct phases: Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep and Non-Rapid Eye Movement (NREM) sleep. NREM sleep is further divided into Stages 1 (N1), 2 (N2), and 3 (N3). Stages 1 and 2 of NREM sleep are collectively termed "light sleep."Stage 3 NREM sleep is termed "deep sleep." REM sleep is often associated with dream experiences, hence its common name "dream sleep."
The normal sleep cycle comprises light sleep, deep sleep, and dream sleep, each serving distinct yet essential functions. Gaining insight into one's own sleep patterns is challenging without external tools, making technology indispensable.
Image shows HUAWEI WATCH FIT Vitality Edition
Sleep monitoring devices, such as Huawei smart wearables, capture sleep data using Huawei's proprietary, industry-leading infrared sleep detection technology—TruSleep 2.0 sleep monitoring. This technology accurately detects various sleep states without disturbing the user, performing sleep stage tracking, real-time heart rate monitoring, and sleep apnea detection. It evaluates sleep quality and provides hundreds of sleep improvement suggestions based on clinical validation from top-tier hospitals in China. Upon waking, users can review their sleep data via Huawei smart wearables to further enhance sleep quality.
Image: HUAWEI WATCH GT Pro
However, many users engage in "sleep-aiding" activities before bed to improve sleep, yet these practices often prove counterproductive.For instance, vigorous exercise before bed, without proper stretching afterward, can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, making it harder to fall asleep. Similarly, struggling to sleep when insomnia strikes can create psychological pressure, leading to a vicious cycle of sleeplessness.
The correct approach involves taking a warm bath before bed. Research indicates that the smaller the difference between internal and surface body temperature at night, the stronger the urge to sleep. Thus, a warm bath or foot soak can aid sleep. Additionally, create a sleep-friendly environment by adjusting your bedroom to your ideal state, minimizing light sources, and calming your mind.
Image shows Huawei Band B6
Of course, everyone's sleep patterns differ. Methods like reducing body-surface temperature differences or creating sleep-friendly environments may not significantly improve sleep for some. Using Huawei smart wearables or similar devices to review sleep data after each sleep session and following sleep improvement recommendations is the optimal way to enhance sleep quality.
For those who frequently experience insomnia, establishing a consistent daily routine is recommended. These practices will significantly aid sleep and gradually help you overcome insomnia.