The difference is largely internal (Picture: Getty/Metro.co.uk)
Regardless of the mattress you have, sometimes it can feel like trying to fall asleep on concrete, as if you can’t get comfortable no matter how much you toss and turn.
By morning, however, that same bed which once seemed so inhospitable hugs every contour of your body, begging you to stay in its cosy embrace.
It’s a strange paradox experienced by many, and one that seems particularly frustrating once the alarm goes off each day.
Before you condemn your shapeshifting bed to the dump, though, it’s worth looking inwards to fix the problem.
Uncomfortable bedding can definitely be an issue that stops your brain switching off, along with external issues like noise or light.
But according to Becky Spelman, psychologist and founder of Private Therapy Clinic, the most common factor in preventing nighttime relaxation is ‘an active mind or high levels of stress.’
She adds: ‘Additionally, certain medical conditions or sleep disorders, such as insomnia, can make falling asleep challenging for some individuals.’
There aren’t borrowers coming in and turning your mattress from nails memory foam overnight either: the changes you go through in the hours you’re asleep are why you feel so different about your bed.
Sometimes tossing and turning just won’t cut it (Picture: Getty Images)
Becky tells Metro.co.uk: ‘Our bodies have a natural sleep-wake cycle called the circadian rhythm. Towards the end of the sleep cycle, our body temperature rises, and the release of hormones like cortisol and serotonin helps us feel more awake and alert.
‘As a result, we may feel more comfortable in the morning due to these physiological changes.’
A hormone called melatonin – which is responsible for controlling the sleep-wake cycle – also plays a part to this snuggly switcheroo.
During sleep humans pump out plenty of melatonin, but as soon as we wake up this production stops.
It can take time for what’s left over to dissipate, so traces of it still coursing through your body could be why you feel like you’re cosied up in a cloud first-thing.
If you regularly find it difficult to wind down at night, it can be handy to take a look at your space and bedtime routine first – something you may see referred to as ‘sleep hygiene’.
‘Creating a comfortable sleep environment is crucial,’ says Becky. ‘Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature. Invest in a quality mattress, pillows, and bedding that suit your preferences too.’
She also recommends minimising your exposure to screens and stimulation close to bedtime, instead opting for soothing activities like ‘reading, taking a warm bath, or practicing relaxation techniques.’
Blue light emitted from phones and computers has been found to mess with that all-important circadian rhythm, so it’s best to steer clear of scrolling in bed, as well as avoiding vigorous exercise at nighttime which has the opposite effect to what you’re going for.
When it comes to how to wake up easier in the mornings, consistency is key.
‘It’s helpful to establish a regular sleep schedule,’ says Becky.
‘Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends, and avoid hitting the snooze button, as it can disrupt your sleep cycle and make you feel groggier.’
You may still have days where you want to swaddle yourself in the duvet, but hopefully if your sleep is improved you’ll feel more restored and less attached to your bed.
‘Exposing yourself to natural light after waking up can help regulate your circadian rhythm and promote wakefulness,’ Becky adds.
‘Additionally, engaging in some light physical activity or stretching can help energise your body.’
If your sleep issues continue or you regularly feel tired after sleeping, it’s best to visit your GP. You may have a condition such as sleep apnoea, in which case no amount of sleep hygiene will get to the root of the problem and medical advice is what’s needed.
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The same bed can feel very different depending on the time.
