Understanding and Managing Urban Insomnia: Sleep Challenges in the City

by Sep 14, 2023Relaxium Sleep, Sleep Tips, Wellness

Sep 14, 2023

In this blog, we are going to explore the complexities of urban insomnia. Discover the causes, effects, and effective strategies for managing sleep challenges amidst the hustle and bustle of city life. Take control of your sleep and well-being today!

The urban landscape, with its glittering lights, incessant noise, and relentless pace, has captivated and inspired countless dreamers. Yet, for many, it has also disrupted the tranquility of the night, making the pursuit of restful slumber an elusive dream.

But why is this topic so pressing? Why should you, as an urbanite, or someone intrigued by the mysteries of urban living, care about the quality of your sleep? The answer lies in understanding the profound connection between sleep and our physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

From the relentless hum of traffic outside your window to the glow of electronic screens that never truly dim, we uncover the intricacies of urban insomnia and equip you with the knowledge and tools to regain control over your sleep.

Sleep struggles when living in the city

Living in the city can be exhilarating but it can also come with its own set of challenges, one of them being sleep. Here are some of the reasons sleep can be difficult to attain while living in urban areas

  • Noise: Cities tend to be spaces with consistent noise. Traffic, sirens, construction, and even late-night crowds can create so much noise that falling asleep and staying asleep can be very difficult. 
  • Light: Bright city lights, natural and artificial, can disrupt your body’s circadian rhythm. Whether it comes from street lamps or electronic screens, excessive exposure can trick your brain into thinking it is daytime, making sleep harder to attain. 
  • Stress and anxiety: The pressures of work, the fast pace of daily routines, and a sense of urgency can lead to elevated stress and anxiety which can interfere with the ability to drift into restful sleep. 
  • Irregular schedules: The city can often come with a 24/7 sense of nature which can lead to irregular schedules. Late-night meetings, social events, or shift work can disrupt your internal clock, making creating a sleep pattern difficult. 
  • Limited green spaces: Access to nature and green spaces is limited in urban environments. The lack of exposure to natural settings can impact your overall well-being as connecting with nature is a natural stress reliever. 
  • Air quality: Pollution is a common problem in cities. This can lead to respiratory issues and discomfort during sleep. Poor air quality can trigger allergies and breathing difficulties, further compromising your sleep. 
  • High cost of living: The financial strain of city living can add to your worries which can lead to financial stress and uncertainty, affecting sleep. 
  • Social pressures: Nightlife culture in a city is prominent above all other locations to live. Social norms can encourage participation which can lead to some late nights. Peer pressure and the desire to fit in can lead to later bedtimes and sleep deprivation. 
  • Limited space: Smaller living spaces and shared walls can expose you to noisy neighbors or disruptions from adjacent units, which makes it more difficult to find a quiet, peaceful sleep environment. 
circadian rhythm

How can I sleep better to avoid urban insomnia?

Improving your sleep in an urban area can be challenging, but with some lifestyle adjustments and thoughtful strategies, you can create a sleep-friendly environment. Here are several tips to help you get better sleep in the city:

  • Noise mitigation
  • Light control
  • Bedroom setup
  • Establish a routine
  • Limit caffeine and alcohol
  • Exercise regularly 
  • Manage stress
  • Healthy diet

Noise mitigation

With noise being a consistent issue in urban areas, the use of products like white noise machines, soundproof curtains, or earplugs can help drown out street noise. Maybe even consider using a fan or humidifier with built-in white noise. 

white noise machines or earplugs

Light control

Darkness is a key component of good sleep. To control light, consider installing blackout curtains to clock out ambient city lights. Make sure to also minimize screen time before bed because blue light emitted from technology alerts the brain, keeping you up at night. 

Bedroom setup

The setup of your bedroom is very telling of the amount of sleep you receive each night. Be sure to have mattresses and pillows that are both comfortable and supportive. Keep your bedroom cool and well-ventilated and remove electronic devices and work-related materials to create a calm and stress-free environment. 

Establish a routine

Routine is crucial for adequate sleep. Try to stick to a consistent sleep schedule, even on the weekends. This will help to regulate your circadian rhythm. Get into a schedule by winding down with relaxing activities like reading, stretching, or even meditation. 

A perfect routine before bed can also include taking a sleep supplement like Relaxium Sleep. Relaxium Sleep is designed to help you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and wake up feeling more refreshed and alert. 

Limit caffeine and alcohol

Caffeine and alcohol in the late hours of the day can disrupt sleep patterns. Avoid consuming either too close to bedtime. 

Exercise regularly

Engage in regular physical activity regularly to not only promote better health but also better sleep. Though this is beneficial, avoid exercising right before bed as it may stimulate the brain to remain alert. 

Manage stress

Manage stress by performing stress-reducing techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga. This can help to calm the mind before sleep. Also, consider keeping a journal by the bed so you can jot down worries or thoughts so they won’t keep you up at night. 

Healthy diet

Avoid heavy, spicy, or large meals too close to bedtime as they can cause discomfort or disrupt your sleep. Instead, opt for light snacks if you feel hungry before bed. 

14 night trial

Make the most out of city living!

No matter where you live, sleep is crucial. Utilize the tips listed for the best sleep in urban areas. 

Relaxium offers a number of safe and effective supplements that aid in the categories of sleep, calm, focus, and immunity. Created by Clinical Neurologist, Dr. Eric Ciliberti, TryRelaxium.com offers a 30-day Money Back Guarantee trial of Relaxium Sleep to allow our users to truly experience its effects. To try the product today visit our website for more information. 

To restful and healthy days ahead. 

The Relaxium Team 

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Sources:

https://sleepeducation.org/big-city-living-may-cause-insomnia-sleep-loss/#:~:text=The%20bedroom%20is%20too%20hot,challenge%20for%20some%20city%20dwellers.

https://simpleghar.com/which-city-in-the-world-truly-never-sleeps/

https://www.sleepfoundation.org/bedroom-environment/light-and-sleep#:~:text=As%20a%20general%20rule%2C%20it,few%20hours%20before%20waking%20up.

SLEEP WELLNESS ACHIEVED