Hey, did you know that March 15 is World Sleep Day? Well, to mark the occasion, we’ve got a little treat for you! We’ve curated a list of 8 fascinating facts about ‘sleep’ that are bound to pique your interest. So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn something new about the wonderful world of snooze!
12% people dream in black and white
Approximately 12% of individuals exclusively dream in black and white. Prior to the advent of color television, only around 15% of individuals experienced dreams filled with vibrant hues. It’s noteworthy that older generations tend to have monochromatic dreams more frequently than their younger counterparts.
One-third of life is spent sleeping
Humans spend a good chunk, approximately one-third of their lives, catching up on sleep. It’s like, we’re either snoozing or trying to catch some shut-eye for a big part of our lives, you know?! So yeah, sleep pretty much dominates a big part of our existence and we’re not complaining!
Dysania: Difficulty in beginning the day
So, you know when it’s super tough to roll out of bed in the morning? Well, for folks dealing with Dysania, it’s like that struggle dialled up to eleven out of ten. Officially, Dysania means a ‘chronic feeling that you just cannot get out of bed in the morning’. Further, nearly 40% of adolescents experience this. And, in most cases, the condition is connected to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or other underlying medical conditions.
Postprandial Somnolence: ‘Food Coma’ Explained
So, you know those times when you feel like nodding off, after a hearty meal? That’s called Postprandial Somnolence, meaning ‘feeling sleepy after eating’. Although there is a lack of scientific evidence regarding the causes and mechanisms of this sleepiness, a few theories offer possible explanations. Theories include: changes in blood flow to the brain after a large meal, high-fat or carbohydrate-rich food intake and so on.
15% of people are Sleepwalkers
It’s quite surprising, but according to the National Sleep Foundation, about 15% of individuals are known to experience sleepwalking. This phenomenon, also known as somnambulism, involves performing activities typically associated with wakefulness while still in a state of sleep. It’s a fascinating aspect of sleep behaviour, that highlights the complexities of the human mind during different stages of rest.
Hypnic Jerks: ‘Falling’ while asleep
Ever had that feeling of falling when you’re half asleep and suddenly, you jolt awake? Yeah, that’s what they call ‘hypnic jerks’. No one really knows why they happen, but they’re supposed to be normal. Still, things like anxiety, caffeine, or hitting the gym before bedtime might crank them up a notch. They happen more often in younger folks and ease off as we age.
Women need an extra hour of sleep
Studies show that women usually need an extra hour of sleep compared to guys. So, when the ladies say they need more snooze time, you better listen up! This difference might come down to a few biological and hormonal reasons specific to women, stressing the importance of giving them the sleep they need.
Sleep deprivation can make you hungry
When you’re not catching enough quality sleep, you’re more inclined to indulge in extra munchies because your blood leptin levels plummet. Essentially, cutting corners on sleep leaves you feeling hungrier, as leptin – the hormone that usually keeps your appetite in check – goes on a downward spiral. So, if you find yourself raiding the fridge late at night, blame it on those restless nights!
