Sunlight, Sleep & Screentime: Your Nervous System Called, It Wants a Holiday

Ever feel like you’re constantly running on fumes, wired yet utterly exhausted? Your nervous system might be sending out an SOS. In our always-on world, it’s easy to get caught in a cycle where true rest feels like a luxury, not a necessity. But here’s the thing: your nervous system needs a break. It deserves a holiday from the constant stimulation, and guess what? 

You have the power to give it one.

The Modern-Day Overload: A Nervous System on High Alert

Think about your day. Does it start with an alarm and end with blue light? Are you constantly checking notifications, scrolling through feeds, and juggling responsibilities? No Judgement; it’s real life for so many of us. But this constant stimulation keeps our nervous system in a heightened state, often leaning towards "fight or flight."

According to a Statista survey, adults in the UK spent an average of 3 hours and 33 minutes per day on their smartphones. That’s a significant chunk of time dedicated to screens, and it doesn't even account for laptops, tablets, and TVs! This constant digital engagement, while connecting us, can also disconnect us from our natural rhythms.

The Power of Sunlight: Reconnecting with Your Internal Clock

Remember the last time you felt truly invigorated by the sun on your skin? There’s a reason for that. Sunlight isn't just about Vitamin D; it’s a powerful regulator for your circadian rhythm, your body's internal 24-hour clock.

As stated by research published in the National Library of Medicine, exposure to natural light, especially in the morning, can significantly improve sleep quality and mood. When you soak up some morning rays, you're telling your body, "Hey, it's daytime! Time to be alert." This clear signal helps set you up for a better night's rest later. Ideally, aim to get sunlight within the first 30 minutes of waking, especially if you can step outside. But if you're not a morning person, no worries! A short walk or even just spending a few minutes outdoors later in the morning can still do the trick.

Simple steps can make a big difference here. Maybe it's enjoying your morning tea by an open window, taking a walk during your lunch break, or simply stepping outside for a few minutes. It's about finding those small moments to let the light in.

Reclaiming Your Nights: The Unsung Hero of Wellbeing -  Sleep

If you’re running on coffee, chaos, and crossed fingers, it’s time we talked about sleep. It’s not just about shutting your eyes; it’s a crucial reset button for your entire being. When you sleep, your body and mind work on repairing, consolidating memories, and balancing hormones.

A 2023 survey revealed that 36% of adults in the UK struggled to fall asleep at least once a week. That's a lot of us feeling wired at night and wiped all day. When sleep is consistently disrupted, your nervous system can remain in a state of alert, making it harder to truly switch off.

We know it’s not always easy to get those elusive 7-9 hours. But even small shifts can help. Creating a calming pre-sleep routine can signal to your nervous system that it’s time to wind down. This might involve dimming the lights, avoiding stimulating activities, and putting away those screens.

For those nights when drifting off feels like a distant dream, you have options to explore what works for you. Consider something like Hiro Sleep Capsules, packed with natural ingredients like Ashwagandha and Magnesium to help you ease into sleep and wake up refreshed. If you prefer a more sensory approach, a few spritzes of Aery Living's Before Sleep Pillow Mist with its calming lavender notes can transport you to a tranquil oasis. For a comforting ritual, Teapsy's Sleepy Bunny offers a delicious lavender and caramel latte powder to unwind with. Or, if you’re looking for a convenient beverage, Medahuman's Night Still CBD Drinks blend broad-spectrum CBD with natural melatonin sources like sour cherry and magnesium to help you drift off. It’s about finding the pathway to calm that resonates with you.

Setting Boundaries: The Art of Mindful Screentime

Our screens are powerful tools, but they can also be subtle stressors. The constant stream of information, the urge to respond immediately, and the blue light emitted from devices can all keep your nervous system on high alert, even when you think you’re relaxing.

As shown by a study, excessive screen time, especially before bed, can negatively impact sleep quality and increase feelings of stress..

This isn’t about ditching your devices entirely. It’s about building a more balanced relationship with them. Perhaps you could try journaling instead of endlessly scrolling on TikTok. You can still enjoy your favourite apps, but maybe reduce the time you spend on them and swap some of that for moments of reflection. Tools like The Five Minute Journal can help you cultivate gratitude and self-growth with just a few minutes each day. To truly embrace those focused moments, you might pair your journaling with the Mindful Focus 5 Minute Hourglass, a simple tool to guide short, intentional breaks.

Calming Your Nervous System: Finding Your Balance

Sometimes, your nervous system just needs a gentle nudge back to equilibrium. It’s about finding moments of peace amidst the daily hustle. There are many ways to support this natural calm, and what works for one person might be different for another.

For those seeking a grounding ritual, DIRTEA Cacao offers a powerful blend of raw cacao and functional mushrooms like Lion’s Mane and Reishi, designed to support focus and nervous system balance. If you're looking for a warm, energising yet calming drink, SoulBrew Rise combines mushrooms, adaptogens, and spices for steady energy without the coffee jitters. And for a simple, on-the-go option, Nutriburst Ashwagandha KSM-66 Gummies are expertly crafted to help with stress management, support cortisol reduction, improve focus, and maintain energy levels. 

You've got options, from delicious powders to convenient gummies to relaxing drinks, so you can choose what feels right for your life.

Your Nervous System, Your Terms

Ultimately, giving your nervous system the holiday it deserves isn't about rigid rules or a complete life overhaul. It's about understanding the subtle signals your body sends and choosing simple, practical ways to support it. Whether it's more sunshine, better sleep, or mindful screentime, you have the power to cultivate a calmer, more balanced existence.

At CHILL, we’re here to offer honest support that fits real life. No filters, no pressure to fit the “wellness” mould. Just practical, feel-good wellness that actually works. Explore our Nervous System Toolkit Edit and discover how you can support your nervous system on your terms.