Activating Night Shift Mode Actually Leads to Better Sleep

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How many times have you woken up still holding your phone? Don’t worry, we are embarrassed to say we have too.

Are we that obsessed and addicted to life inside a screen we need it to fall asleep? Or is it simply the only time we have in the day to check emails and browse through social media?

Activating Night Shift Mode Actually Leads to Better Sleep-min — Activating Night Shift Mode Actually Leads to Better Sleep

We previously discussed the issues with the blue light streaming from your device and why it hinders your sleep read more here – Easiest way to get better sleep as a shift worker.

But we do understand that simply putting down your device a few hours before bed can be a work in progress.

Smart device withdrawal is a real phenomenon for most and my nursing friends will agree that patients struggle to put down their phones even to do a blood pressure and take blood!

Luckily for us shift workers, there are different night modes and apps available while we work on the bigger issue of putting down our devices altogether.

Why Are These Night Modes Critical for Shift Workers?

Due to the nature of our work, our bodies are confused when it is exposed to light at odd times making it tough to fall asleep.

These settings and apps will limit the amount of damaging blue light coming from your device by acting as a filter.

Your device will give off a red/orange tint, making it easier on your eyes in dark environments.

It does take a little while to adjust to these settings but it is worth it. Night shift workers, we suggest turning these on now, because let’s face it, the majority of us will forget.

Activating Night Shift Mode Actually Leads to Better Sleep - Hand holding iphone - The Other Shift

For Apple Users

On your mobile, go to settings > display and brightness > Night shift. You can also schedule when you would like this to start which is ace. If you are using an Apple Mac and your device is updated you can adjust the settings by going into System Preferences > click Displays > Night Shift tab. The cool thing about the Mac update is that the app can calibrate your screen based on your actual schedule, not just sunrise and sunset times.

Alternatively, you can download an unbelievable app called F.lux which works in a similar way to the night shift mode.

For Android Users

There are also options for you too. Those with a Galaxy device can utilize a mode called ‘blue light filter’ which works in a similar fashion to Apple products. Apps also available for download are CF.lumen, Midnight and Twilight.

Activating Night Shift Mode Actually Leads to Better Sleep - Man holding android phone - The Other Shift

Online providers are also embracing the “night mode” such as Twitter. Click here to find out more.

Albeit These Clever Night Shift Modes Are Great…

Unfortunately, it doesn’t stop the flow of exciting updates you receive from emails, text messages or gossip on your social media accounts. You will still need a level of self-control to block out these stimuli.

Adjusting your settings or downloading the free apps today is a great start. Your eyes will be much happier, whilst importantly creating an environment that encourages sleep.

We implemented these changes only a few months ago and it has made a significant difference. There is defiantly less tossing and turning and we seem to be falling asleep quicker.

We would love to know if this method worked for you. Have you found any other apps which work well?

Have you also heard about blue light blocking glasses? They are brilliant! Swanwick Sleep makes an incredible pair if you’re wondering where to start looking, which we reviewed here.