Experts suggest using a regular alarm clock instead of your phone to improve sleep quality. Getty Images


January 27, 2025 Tags:

In today's world, phones have become our all-in-one devices, replacing everything from calculators to maps. But when it comes to waking up refreshed, your phone might not be the best choice as an alarm clock.

Dr. Shalini Paruthi, a sleep expert, suggests keeping your phone out of the bedroom to reduce distractions and the temptation to scroll through it at night. "Keeping the phone in another room will likely decrease the opportunity for distraction from sleep, and also decrease opportunity for sleep procrastination," she explained. The convenience of having your phone next to you might encourage late-night scrolling and make it too easy to hit the snooze button in the morning.

Many people set their alarms earlier than necessary, only to repeatedly press snooze, trying to steal a few more minutes of sleep. But experts warn that this habit may not be as beneficial as it seems. "Ideally, a person has gotten enough sleep that by the time the alarm rings, they are well rested and actually ready to get up," Dr. Paruthi said. Hitting snooze once may help ease into waking up, but hitting it more than once disrupts your sleep cycle.

Dr. Brandon Peters-Mathews, a neurologist, explains that the most important part of sleep is REM (Rapid Eye Movement), a phase that helps with memory and creativity. Fragmenting this sleep can interfere with brain function. Instead of hitting snooze, experts recommend allowing yourself to sleep deeply until you need to wake up.

Dr. Joseph Dzierzewski from the National Sleep Foundation added that while an extra 5 to 10 minutes of sleep may seem appealing, it doesn’t significantly improve rest. He advises that when you wake up feeling unrefreshed, it's best to get out of bed and start the day with intention, setting yourself up for better sleep that night.

The benefits of using an old-fashioned alarm clock instead of your phone include fewer distractions. Alarm clocks come with various features, such as vibrations, lights, or even puzzles, that can help you wake up and get moving. Phones, on the other hand, often encourage checking social media or emails first thing in the morning, which isn't the best way to start the day.

Another advantage of using an alarm clock is that it encourages better sleep habits. "Ideally, a bedtime routine includes winding down, relaxing, and helping the brain transition from a 'go-go-go' state to a more calm, ready-to-fall-asleep state," Dr. Paruthi said. Phones are often the culprit when it comes to procrastinating sleep by encouraging us to check notifications, which can make falling asleep harder.

Having a phone close by increases curiosity, often prompting us to check it before falling asleep. Dr. Dzierzewski points out that this curiosity can interfere with both falling asleep and staying asleep. If your phone is out of reach, you're less likely to be tempted.

To improve sleep quality and wake up feeling more energized, the National Sleep Foundation recommends a few simple steps. Ensure you get 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night, avoid heavy meals or caffeine before bed, and establish a consistent bedtime routine. If you're still waking up tired despite these efforts, it may be time to consult with a sleep physician to check for conditions like sleep apnea or insomnia.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

You may also like

Ice Bucket Challenge Returns After A Decade To Support Mental Health

The Ice Bucket Challenge is making a comeback, but this time, it’s not just about ALS. The new version of....

Pedro Pascal’s Premiere Look Supports Trans Women’s Rights

Pedro Pascal, a well-known Hollywood actor, used the premiere of Marvel's "Thunderbolts" in London to show his support for trans....

Drones to deliver supplies on Mount Everest, changing climbs forever

At the top of the world, surrounded by glaciers and towering peaks, Mount Everest has long been a place where....

Florence Pugh Wears Stunning Sheer Gown At Thunderbolts Premiere

Florence Pugh caught everyone's attention with her bold black outfit at the Thunderbolts premiere in London. The 29-year-old actress wore....

Carrie Underwood wows fans with her toned figure in mini pink dress

Carrie Underwood recently turned heads with her stylish outfit during her appearance on American Idol. The country music star wore....

First Canadian Wins Top Global Whisky Award, Displays It in Windsor

A major achievement has arrived in Windsor, Ontario. Don Livermore, the master blender at Hiram Walker and Sons, has won....

Sarah Jessica Parker’s Surprising Shoe Choice In Paris Stuns Fans

Sarah Jessica Parker is widely known for her impeccable fashion sense, both on-screen as Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the....

Coachella 2025: Fashion Trends And Standout Celebrity Looks

Coachella 2025 has shown a noticeable shift in the festival’s fashion scene. As the second weekend approaches, many attendees have....

 Man Runs 55 km To Visit Every McDonald’s In Vancouver

Lawrence Nguyen, a 28-year-old runner, set out on a fun and bold mission: to run through Vancouver and stop at....

Paris Hilton’s Cut-Out Catsuit Sparks Buzz At Coachella

Paris Hilton made a splash at Coachella 2025, joining thousands of fans enjoying performances from big stars like Lady Gaga,....

Elizabeth Hurley, 59, Turns Heads In Sparkling Low-Cut Sequin Dress

Elizabeth Hurley turned heads at the 28th SPA Awards in Germany on Saturday. The 59-year-old actress looked stunning in a....

Selena Gomez And Benny Blanco Embrace The Matching Look Trend

Celebrity couples have long made waves by coordinating their outfits, creating a style statement that reflects their relationship. This trend....