World Sleep Day

World Sleep Day History

World Sleep seeks to highlight the crucial role sleep plays in our overall health and wellness. Established by the World Sleep Society, the day acts as a call to action on sleep-related issues, encompassing prevention and management of sleep disorders. The observance also underscores the critical importance of proper sleep patterns in enhancing productivity, fostering mental well-being, and ensuring a better quality of life.

World Sleep Day has a significant relevance in the Indian context, given the rising tide of sleep disorders in the country. Historically, the event was established in 2008 and has been observed annually ever since. Stressful lifestyle, escalating work-related demands, and increasing digital engagement are prevalent in India's fast-paced urban environments, leading to a surge in sleep disorders. Moreover, a recent study conducted in India highlighted that close to 93% of the population is sleep-deprived, reinforcing the importance of observing World Sleep Day in India.

In India, World Sleep Day is commemorated with numerous activities chalked out to spread awareness about the impact of sleep on health. Talks, workshops, and awareness campaigns led by sleep specialists and healthcare organizations highlight the importance of good sleep hygiene. These programs encourage positive sleep habits and underline the need for timely diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders. Schools and colleges organize special sessions and distribute sleep-related educational resources. The day is observed annually on the Friday before Spring Vernal Equinox, which typically falls in the middle of March.

Facts about World Sleep Day

• The slogan for World Sleep Day in 2023 was Sleep is Essential for Health.
• Reports by the CDC show that adults aged 18-64 who sleep less than 7 hours per night are more likely to report chronic health conditions such as depression, arthritis, and asthma, compared to those who sleep more than 7 hours.
• Indian mythology and traditional practices also highlight the importance of sleep. For instance, Yoga Nidra, also known as yogic sleep, is a state of consciousness between waking and sleeping that is promoted for deep relaxation and rejuvenation. Many yoga centres in India conduct special workshops on Yoga Nidra on World Sleep Day.
• A research study found out that 93% of Indians are sleep-deprived due to high engagement on electronic devices.

In the News and Trending in India for World Sleep Day

Top things to do in India for World Sleep Day

• Get better sleep! Some healthy sleep habits are: establishing a regular sleep and wake schedule, eliminating disturbances, and getting an adequate amount of sleep each night.
• Browse activites for World Sleep Day by country.
• Read a book to learn more about the importance of sleep:
  Sleep in Early Modern England - by Sasha Handley: Although this book isn't specifically about sleep in India, it discusses the evolution of sleep patterns and practices from a historical perspective which can give a deeper understanding of how cultural influences, like those from India, can impact sleep.
  Dreaming in the World's Religions: A Comparative History - by Kelly Bulkeley: helps understand the approach to sleep and dreams in different world religions, including Hinduism and Buddhism, which originate from India.
• Form Healthy Sleep Practices: Spend this day focusing on improving personal sleep habits, create a serene sleep environment in your bedroom, follow a proper sleep schedule, etc.