Scientists are discovering that poor sleep during the first night in an unfamiliar space is the result of an evolutionary mechanism called the “first night effect”, in which the left hemisphere of the brain remains awake to protect us from potential dangers in a new environment.

Many travelers and hotel guests face the same problem: the first night spent in a new and unfamiliar space often brings interrupted sleep, difficulty falling asleep and a feeling of fatigue the next morning.

Scientists point out that the reason lies not in the comfort of the bed, but in an ancient evolutionary survival mechanism known as the “first night effect”.

According to neurobiological research, the human brain automatically perceives a new environment as potentially dangerous. To protect yourself from possible threats, during the first night, sleep asymmetry occurs – the right hemisphere of the brain enters a deep sleep, while the left remains in a state of alertness.

This “night guard” makes the brain extremely sensitive to external stimuli. Unfamiliar sounds such as air conditioning, traffic or creaking furniture, as well as different smells and light levels, activate the defense system and prevent entering a deep rest phase. At home, the brain ignores the same stimuli because it recognizes them as safe.

Experts point out that this is a temporary situation. Already on the second night, the brain analyzes the space as a safe environment, the vigilance mechanism turns off and the quality of sleep returns to normal.

To alleviate this phenomenon, experts advise:

– Bring your pillow or object with the scent of the house to create a feeling of closeness.

– Keep your usual evening routine before bed.

– Use earplugs and a sleep mask to reduce sudden stimuli.

Source: prizrenpost