LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: When it comes to falling asleep, we all have our own unique rituals. Counting sheep, practicing mindfulness with meditation apps, or seeking solace in prayer may be common methods for drifting off. However, if you're anything like the talented singer and YouTuber Madison Beer, then falling asleep with the TV on is your perfect slumber companion.
In a recent episode of the popular 'Pretty Basic' podcast, hosted by Alisha Marie and Remi Cruz, Beer revealed her peculiar yet fascinating nighttime routine. She confessed that she simply cannot sleep without the comforting presence of a television screen illuminating her bedroom. But here's the kicker – her go-to shows for lulling her into dreamland are anything but calming. Chaos reigns supreme as she chooses to indulge in the drama-filled worlds of reality TV shows such as 'Dance Moms' or 'Kitchen Nightmares'.
Madison Beer falls asleep with TV on
@prettybasicofficial and at the top of the pyramid…. 📝 @Madison Beer ♬ original sound - Pretty Basic PodcastDespite her friends considering her preference for falling asleep to 'Gordon Ramsay's wrath over someone's culinary abilities as peculiar, Beer finds solace and relaxation in these high-energy shows. It's as if the tense atmosphere somehow transports her to a serene oasis, allowing her mind to unwind and drift off into a peaceful slumber.
However, her podcast hosts, Marie and Cruz, fail to understand the appeal of such a sleep experience. Cruz candidly points out that the concept of finding tranquility in shows like Dance Moms or Kitchen Nightmares is beyond her comprehension. But let's delve deeper – does falling asleep with the TV on actually have any effects on our quality of sleep?
Here's how it affects you
Surprisingly, there is limited scientific research on this subject matter. Most studies mainly focus on the potential impact of blue light emitted by TV screens. Dr Shelby Harris, the esteemed director of sleep health at Sleepopolis, sheds some light on the importance of practicing good sleep hygiene. And one of the crucial steps in doing so involves minimizing screen time before bed. Consequently, this means bidding farewell to your faithful television companion, as the mesmerizing allure of what you're watching easily distracts you from sleep. Let's face it, we're all guilty of binge-watching our favorite shows late into the night. Yet, Dr Harris advises limiting your exposure to blue light sources, including cell phones, computers, tablets, and yes, even your trusty TV, one to two hours before settling down for the night.
In essence, falling asleep to the ambient glow of a television screen may be an individualistic preference that lacks substantial scientific backing. However, the benefits of minimizing blue light exposure before bed are well-documented. So, as tempting as it may be to immerse yourself in the captivating narratives of reality TV or the thrilling plot twists of your favorite series, it might be best to bid adieu to the TV and create a serene environment conducive to restful sleep.