Can tech help you optimise your sleep? 

Sleep technology is advancing at a staggering rate. One in five people now uses a sleep tracking device to assess their night’s rest.

But is using a sleep tracker beneficial or could it potentially do more harm than good? In this post, we’ll explore different sleep trackers and consider the pros and cons.

What devices are currently out there?

• Wearables, such as watches, straps, and rings, collect movement and heart rate data. Some also track breathing patterns.
• Bedside devices collect data about body movement and breathing. They may also measure components of your sleep environment, such as temperature, humidity, ambient noise and light.
• Bed sensors under your sheet or mattress can measure your movement and heart rate. Like bedside devices, they may also gather environmental data.

The good:

• Sleep tracking can provide insights into your sleep quality and duration. This can help you identify issues that may be affecting your sleep, such as insomnia, sleep apnoea, or restless leg syndrome. You can then take steps to address these issues.
• Sleep tracking can help you establish a regular sleep schedule and identify factors that may cause you to feel tired during the day. Remember, consistency is key to good sleep hygiene.
• Tracking your sleep can help you understand how certain lifestyle behaviours affect your sleep. For example, you may find that you sleep better on days when you drink chamomile tea before bed or exercise earlier in the day rather than in the late afternoon.
• Lastly, using a sleep tracker at home can help you avoid more invasive and expensive clinical tests. 

The not-so-good:

• The accuracy of sleep-tracking devices is a big concern. Many devices use movement and heart rate to estimate sleep stages, but these may be over- or underestimated. This can lead to misinterpretation and unnecessary stress.
• Another potential downside is orthosomnia, or the obsession with achieving perfect sleep. Some people may become so focused on the data that they become anxious, which can hamper your sleep. Talk about a vicious sleep cycle.
• Having a sleep device or app on your phone may also cause you to use electronic devices before bedtime. It’s well researched that increased exposure to blue light (emitted from electronic devices) impairs your sleep quality.
• Finally, your sleep quality depends on a variety of factors, including stress, diet, and exercise. Focusing too much on sleep tracking can cause you to neglect the very factors that can benefit your sleep.

So, should I track my sleep?

It’s up to you. If you find the data informative and motivating to make positive changes, then go for it. But if it's causing you stress or worsening your sleep, it may be best to take a step back. After all, the goal is to get a good night's sleep, not to achieve perfect sleep data.

If you choose to purchase a device, do your research beforehand. The quality of devices is highly variable, so look for the most accurate device you can afford.

In conclusion, using a sleep tracker can provide valuable insights and help you make lifestyle changes to improve your sleep. Just remember to use sleep tracking as an assistive tool, not a diagnostic one. Don't let the data become an obsession. 

Disclaimer: Sleep tracking is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you are experiencing sleep issues, please consult with a healthcare provider.