Sleep experts explain how the change in seasons affects sleepand not always for the better.

Here’s how you’re able to have it work for you, not against you.

Try an Unexpected Technique a Sleep Doctor Swears By

What Is Sleep Hygiene, Exactly?

alt

Our editors independently select these products.

Light is energizing and keeps melatonin [a hormone that helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle] down.

Light is one of the biggest reasons sleep changes between the seasons.

alt

assistant professor in medicine at Harvard Medical School and associate scientist at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital

This, she says, will help keep the brain alert until its actually time to start winding down.

What Do Dreams About Snakes Mean?

13 Different Snake Dreams Decoded

Watching Stressful Dramas Like The Pitt Before Bed?

alt

Heres What a Sleep Doctor Thinks

Does Your Sleeping Position Really Say Anything About Your Mental Health?

In addition to mood, SAD can also affect sleep.

A primary treatment for SAD is light therapy, which involves more than using a dawn simulator.

alt

Unlike dawn simulators, she says, light from light boxes is very bright.

It would jolt you awake, not wake you up gently, Dr. Harris adds.

The connection between immunity and sleep is really interesting, Dr. Robbins says.

alt

assistant professor in medicine at Harvard Medical School and associate scientist at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital

Its a vicious cycle of a conundrum that can also compromise sleep quality.

Got it, you’ve been added to our email list.

alt

alt