Waking up to multiple alarms can seriously disrupt your sleep cycle. Generally, there are two types of morning people: those who wake up easily with their alarm or even before it, and those who often sleep through or snooze their alarms. Experts suggest that the latter group should rethink their habit of setting multiple alarms, as the repetitive noise can have adverse effects on health.
Why is hitting the snooze button bad for your health?
Using several alarms to wake up can significantly disturb your REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep cycle. REM sleep is essential for dreaming and involves key bodily functions. It is one of the two primary stages of sleep, the other being non-REM sleep. REM sleep is characterized by increased brain activity, controlled breathing, a slow heart rate, and low blood pressure, as well as rapid eye movements.
Each time an alarm goes off, it can trigger a “fight or flight response,” causing stress to the body. This stress response can lead to sleep inertia, which makes you feel groggy and disoriented, increased drowsiness, fatigue, mood swings, and a rise in cortisol levels. Over time, this continuous stress can lead to chronic health issues such as stress, depression, heart problems, and even weight gain due to ongoing sleep deprivation.
Why might you struggle to wake up on time?
Research shows that the quality and amount of sleep you get each night are crucial factors in whether you can wake up on time. Irregular sleep routines and a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to this problem. The American Sleep Foundation recommends at least eight hours of sleep each night to avoid putting your body into stress mode.
Poor quality and interrupted sleep can lead to:
- Night terrors
- Sleepwalking
- Sleep apnea
- Headaches
- Irritability and fatigue the next day
- Mental health issues
Oversleeping and difficulty getting out of bed can also be symptoms of depression. People with depression often experience anxiety and lethargy, which can negatively affect sleep quality. Stress and anxiety can further lead to sleep deprivation and a lack of motivation to get up in the morning.
Simple ways to avoid sleeping through your alarm
To achieve consistent and regulated sleep, practicing good sleep hygiene is essential. Doctors recommend:
- Eating healthy, balanced meals
- Staying hydrated throughout the day
- Exercising regularly
In the evening, avoid caffeine and choose relaxing activities like reading instead of using electronic devices. Find motivation to get out of bed, whether it’s for work, meeting a friend, or an early morning exercise session.
Place your alarm away from your bed so you have to physically get up to turn it off, but make sure it’s loud enough to wake you. Additionally, exposure to natural light can enhance your energy levels. Try to spend at least 10 minutes in the sunlight after waking up.