Why do we feel more sleepy in winter than in summer, how does the sleep cycle work in winter?

News Topical, Digital Desk : Sleep is a basic need for our body, but it doesn't remain the same across seasons. As the seasons change, so too does our body's routine, energy levels, and sleep patterns. Especially in winter, people often feel more sleepy. They struggle to wake up in the morning and don't feel like leaving the blanket. Many people mistake this for laziness, but in reality, it's a natural and scientific process within the body. Less sunlight, shorter days, and longer nights in winter slow down our body's biological clock, increasing our need for sleep. So, let's explain why we sleep more in winter than in summer, and how the sleep cycle works in winter. 

Why does sleepiness increase in winter?

In fact, in winter, days become shorter and nights become longer. The sun rises late and sets early, due to which the body gets less light. Lack of light directly affects the melatonin hormone produced in our body. Melatonin is the hormone that signals the body to sleep. As darkness increases, melatonin levels also increase and sleepiness starts coming soon. Additionally, when the body does not get enough sunlight, the level of serotonin hormone decreases. Serotonin is linked to mood and activity. When its level falls, it is common to feel lethargic, tired and more sleepy. This is the reason why people want to spend more time in bed during winter. 

Is sleeping too much in winter lazy?

People often think that sleeping more in winter is a sign of laziness, but the truth is different. In fact, during cold weather, the body's metabolism slows down, and the body begins to conserve energy to stay warm. During this time, the body's sleep cycle also changes, and sleep time increases, which means that getting more sleep in winter is a natural need of the body, not a sign of laziness. 

How does seasonal biological rhythm work?

Our bodies have an internal clock called a biological rhythm. This rhythm works according to the length of day and night and seasonal changes. In winter, this rhythm slows down due to less light. This can lead to longer and deeper sleep. In summer, the longer days speed up this rhythm, making us feel less sleepy. Furthermore, the early onset of darkness in winter signals to the brain that rest time has increased. As a result, melatonin is produced longer, leading to longer sleep times. Cold weather also reduces body activity, which can lead to fatigue and lethargy. This process is part of the body's natural response. 

Read More: Is drinking turmeric water every day harmful? Learn the right dosage and side effects.