If you like to fall asleep with a TV show or movie playing, you’re not alone.
Many people seem to have the same bedtime ritual.
But, why is that?
“I know we’re not supposed to have our TV on at night, but I think more than half of Americans fall asleep with their TVs on,” said Dr. Chivonna Childs, a psychologist for Cleveland Clinic. “It is soothing, it is calming to us, it’s almost akin to having white noise.”
Childs said some people may also like to have a show or movie on to help distract them from racing thoughts or feelings of loneliness.
And while that may be beneficial in the moment, being exposed to blue light from your TV or phone can ultimately disrupt your quality of sleep.
Research shows blue light can prevent the body from releasing melatonin, which plays a crucial role in regulating your sleep-wake cycle.
Childs said if you’re not getting good sleep, it can affect both your mental and physical health.
On top of that, the content you watch could impact your dreams.
“When you’re falling asleep, I would be very mindful of what you’re watching. Let’s watch something like a romance or a comedy,” she suggested. “I would avoid watching true crime. I would avoid watching any news because that can be anxiety-provoking. Watch something that makes you feel good at night.”
Instead of watching something before bed, you could try reading, journaling, meditating or listening to calming music.
You could also use a sound machine or have a fan going for background noise.