Devices have been linked to poor sleep quality, as the blue light in most screens delays the body’s circadian rhythm. In addition, the constant demands of returning calls and sending emails, along with various notifications from apps on your device, can affect your ability to “switch off” before bed.
In addition, nearly 65% of travellers sleep less while on the road, which is why The Westin Cape Town is encouraging guests and the public to experience #JOMO (Joy of Missing Out) on World Sleep Day.
Freshlyground’s Zolani Mahola will also be taking time out from her busy schedule to unwind at the hotel and will be experiencing a “device-free” day.
Hit the snooze button
Dr. Melissa Lipford, a neurologist at Mayo Clinic and sleep consultant for World Sleep Society, who champions World Sleep Day, says: “There is a direct correlation between your sleep and your overall well-being.
“And perhaps unexpectedly, quality sleep is also foundational for people to reap the benefits of fitness and is a necessary part of exercise recovery. Disconnecting and winding down one to two hours before bed, which includes putting away light-emitting electronic devices, lends to falling asleep more easily and experiencing deeper, more restful sleep.”
Waking up to wellness
Zolani’s downtime from her device comes amid a packed schedule of performances, both with Freshlyground and as a solo artist, and corporate speaking engagements, and quality time with her family. She has recently returned from the USA, where she hung out backstage on the Daily Show, with Trevor Noah, and met up Goldfish in California.
“It’s so important to put your health and wellness first, by taking back time for yourself. I have been travelling and performing over the last few months, and I decided to switch off for World Sleep Day and reenergize ahead of my upcoming performances, talks and appearances.”
