Reading in bed: how to choose the right light for quality sleep

Reading in bed is a pleasant and relaxing habit that can help release tension built up during the day. Several studies confirm that dedicating a few minutes to reading before sleep promotes mental relaxation, improving overall sleep quality. However, the choice of light for reading in bed can make a big difference: the type of lighting directly affects melatonin, the hormone responsible for the sleep-wake cycle.

Why reading in bed helps you relax

When we read before sleeping, the brain receives a gentle and enjoyable stimulus that distracts the mind from stressful thoughts. This makes it easier to release tension and prepare for rest. It’s no coincidence that many experts recommend replacing smartphones or tablets with books to read, whether physical or digital, to avoid blue light that can interfere with melatonin production.

If you have the comfort of reading on a Veradea memory mattress, the experience improves even further: proper body support reduces muscle tension and allows you to enjoy truly high-quality sleep.

Choosing the right light: warm or cool?

The most common question is about the type of lighting to use in bed: warm light or cool light? The answer is simple: warm light is best for reading in bed before sleep. Warm light has a relaxing effect on the nervous system and does not inhibit melatonin production, making it easier to fall asleep.

On the other hand, cool light tends to stimulate the brain, delaying sleep and making relaxation more difficult.

It’s therefore important to choose a lamp for reading in bed or a night light with a warm tone, positioned to illuminate the pages without straining your eyes. In addition to traditional bedside lamps, small reading lights or compact bedside torches with warm light can help create a cozy and relaxing atmosphere.

Practical tips for effective evening reading

• Prefer physical books or eBook readers with integrated warm light to reduce exposure to blue light.
   
• Choose a bedside lamp with adjustable intensity to create a relaxing ambiance without straining your eyes.
   
• Maintain proper posture: a good cushion for reading in bed and a memory mattress help support the back and shoulders.
   
• Gradually release tension by dedicating at least 15 minutes to reading, avoiding overly intense stimuli or gripping stories.
   
• Turn on the light at the right time: warm light signals to the brain that it’s time to rest, preparing melatonin production.
   

In conclusion

Reading in bed is a great ally for anyone seeking quality sleep, provided attention is paid to the choice of light. Opting for well-calibrated warm light, combined with a quality mattress and a comfortable environment, can transform the evening routine into a genuinely relaxing and beneficial ritual.

Investing in a high-quality memory mattress and the right lighting solutions not only improves posture and comfort but also helps create a nightly ritual that supports rest and balances the sleep-wake cycle. A small gesture that can make a big difference for your daily energy and overall well-being.