Fast sleep hack: This thing tells your brain it's time for bed
Why sleep masks are good for you (photo: Freepik)
Sleep masks are becoming an increasingly popular accessory for nighttime rest. They block out light and create comfortable conditions for better-quality sleep, according to the Cleveland Clinic website.
How sleep masks work
Sleep masks help prevent light from reaching the eyes during sleep. This is important because people can often wake up at night.
They can help because they create a darkened space, which helps the brain calm down. Darkness also increases melatonin production – the hormone that helps regulate the sleep cycle.
A sleep mask can be especially useful if you:
- Work night shifts and sleep during the day
- Have insomnia or trouble falling asleep
- Travel and are in places with a lot of ambient light in the room
Benefits of using a sleep mask
They can be part of a calming nighttime routine that tells the brain it’s time to relax.
Putting a mask over your eyes before sleep can become part of a ritual that signals to the brain that everything is safe, calm, and comfortable.
Since sleep masks help reduce light exposure, they can also improve overall sleep quality and promote deeper sleep.
Long-term benefits of healthy sleep include reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke. Sleep is one of the lesser-known aspects of health.
Types of sleep masks
Sleep masks come in different shapes and made from various fabrics. Among the options:
- Silk – soft, smooth, and gentle on the skin. It is a favorite material for those who want lightness and coolness
- Cooling – designed to feel cool on the skin. Some can be chilled before use. They can soothe if you tend to feel hot at night or have puffy eyes
- Heated – provide gentle warmth around the eyes. You may feel relaxed before sleep, especially if you have dry eyes or eye fatigue
When choosing a sleep mask, pay attention to one that:
- Feels comfortable on the skin
- Fits snugly without being tight
- Stays in place when you change position
- Blocks light well without pressing on the eyes
Do not expect a sleep mask to make up for lack of sleep or cure a sleep disorder.
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This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
