February 28, 2023 | 13:37
If you find it difficult to rest after sleep, you can take advantage of this locking accessory.
Wearing an eye mask while you sleep will help you feel more alert the next day, according to a study published in Sleep Journal.
Researchers have found that a simple hack to block out as much light as possible will increase sleepers’ alertness the next day.
Ambient light sources that can play a role include electronics, sunlight, or street lights.
Experts from Cardiff University conducted two series of experiments involving a total of 124 volunteers between the ages of 18 and 35, asking them to wear an eye mask to sleep for a certain number of nights, followed by the same number of nights without the mask. Participants were also instructed to keep a sleep diary to record their experiences with and without the mask and to complete their homework – ensuring that the results reflect realistic sleep scenarios.
After the experiment, the participants took three different tests right after waking to measure brain power. They revealed that people performed better in cognitive exercise and reaction time during the week they wore the eye mask.
However, the blindfold had no effect on the third test of the motor skills learning exam.
In addition, the results of the study showed no difference in the amount or quality of sleeping while wearing the blindfold compared to not sleeping; Only a positive effect on grogginess was observed the next day.
said study author Viviana Greco, a PhD student in Cardiff in the current situation That wearing a blindfold could be an “effective and inexpensive solution” to improve alertness and work performance.
“The implications of our findings are important for many diurnal tasks such as driving a car or educational or cultural contexts that require learning,” said Greco. PsyPost.
The team hypothesized that the masks help sleepers spend more time in the deepest stage of sleep, also known as slow-wave sleep, which is thought to be important for processing new information and strengthening memories.
The researchers note that eye makeup may be especially beneficial during the summer when the sun rises as early as 4 a.m.
“As sleep scientists, we understand the importance of getting enough sleep, and waking up at 4 a.m. every day is not ideal,” said Greco, who was inspired to start the research after moving to a house without shutters.
