Sleep Tracking

Definition

Sleep tracking involves monitoring and recording various metrics related to your sleep, such as duration, quality, and patterns, to help improve sleep health.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Sleep tracking is the process of using wearable devices, smartphone apps, or other technologies to collect data on sleep parameters like total sleep time, sleep stages, sleep efficiency, and wakefulness. This data is often analyzed to provide insights into sleep hygiene and sleep disorders.

Benefits

• Helps identify sleep patterns and disturbances.
• Assists in improving sleep quality and duration.
• Provides data that can lead to better sleep hygiene practices.
• Can be useful in diagnosing sleep disorders when combined with professional healthcare advice.

Examples

• Using a smartwatch to monitor sleep cycles.
• Recording sleep behaviors with a smartphone app.
• Utilizing a dedicated sleep tracker placed under the mattress.

Additional Information

• Effects: Sleep tracking can lead to increased awareness of sleep habits, encouraging users to make adjustments that promote better overall health and recovery.

Related Terms

• Circadian Rhythm
• Sleep Hygiene
• Sleep Stages
• Insomnia

References

• The role of technology in tracking sleep quality and sleep disorders
• Effects of sleep tracking on sleep quality: A systematic review