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Sleep is a fascinating and complex process. While most of us go to bed, sleep soundly, and wake up feeling refreshed, some people experience something a little different – sleepwalking.
Sleepwalking can range from simple movements like sitting up in bed to more extreme cases where individuals walk around the house, cook food, or even leave the house…all while still asleep. But why does sleepwalking happen, and more importantly, can it be managed?
At Devon Duvets, we’re passionate about helping people get the best night’s sleep possible. In this blog, we explore the science behind sleepwalking and its causes. We also discuss how creating the right sleep environment - including using natural bedding that regulates temperature and promotes deeper sleep - may help reduce the likelihood of episodes.
What is sleepwalking?
Sleepwalking, also known as somnambulism, occurs when someone partially wakes up during deep non-REM sleep, but their brain doesn’t fully activate. This means they can move and even perform complex actions without conscious awareness.
Although more common in children, sleepwalking can continue into adulthood, particularly when triggered by stress, sleep deprivation, or other underlying factors.
Some sleepwalkers simply sit up in bed and look around, while others walk, talk, or even engage in unusual behaviours like cooking or driving - all without remembering anything the next morning.
What causes sleepwalking?
Several factors contribute to sleepwalking, including:
- Genetics: Studies show that sleepwalking runs in families. If one parent sleepwalks, their child has a 45% chance of experiencing it too.
- Sleep deprivation: Lack of quality sleep can trigger sleepwalking episodes.
- Stress and anxiety: High levels of stress disrupt deep sleep cycles, increasing the likelihood of sleepwalking.
- Poor sleep environment: Uncomfortable sleeping conditions, including temperature fluctuations, can interfere with sleep cycles.
- Alcohol and medication: Some substances affect the brain’s sleep patterns and can lead to sleepwalking episodes.
But is sleepwalking dangerous? And what can be done to manage it?
Is sleepwalking dangerous?
For most people, sleepwalking is harmless. However, in some cases, it can lead to injuries.
For example, some sleepwalkers trip over objects, fall downstairs, or even walk out of the house. In extreme cases, sleepwalkers have been known to drive while asleep, which can be incredibly dangerous.
To reduce the risks, creating a safe sleep environment and addressing underlying triggers is crucial.
How can your sleep environment help reduce sleepwalking?
Research suggests that sleep quality plays a key role in sleepwalking. Disruptions in sleep -such as overheating, discomfort, or noise - can increase the likelihood of sleepwalking episodes.
At Devon Duvets, we understand the importance of quality sleep, which is why we create bedding that:
- Regulates temperature naturally: Preventing overheating and ensuring consistent, comfortable sleep.
- Provides natural breathability: Our wool duvets promote airflow, reducing night-time restlessness.
- Supports deeper, less interrupted sleep: High-quality natural bedding helps you fall into a deeper, more restorative sleep, reducing night-time disturbances.
A comfortable, temperature-controlled sleep environment may not cure sleepwalking, but it can help minimise sleep disruptions, which is one of the key triggers.
Frequently asked questions about sleepwalking
To help answer the most common questions people search for about sleepwalking, we’ve put together this Q&A.
1. Why do people sleepwalk?
Sleepwalking happens when the brain is in a state between deep sleep and wakefulness. The body moves, but the conscious mind remains asleep. It can be triggered by genetics, stress, sleep deprivation, or an uncomfortable sleep environment.
2. Can sleep deprivation cause sleepwalking?
Lack of sleep is one of the biggest triggers for sleepwalking. When someone is sleep-deprived, their deep sleep cycles become unstable, increasing the likelihood of sleep disturbances like sleepwalking.
3. Can stress and anxiety make sleepwalking worse?
Absolutely. Stress and anxiety disrupt sleep patterns, causing irregular sleep cycles. When sleep is disrupted, episodes of sleepwalking become more frequent. Practising relaxation techniques, such as breathing exercises or meditation before bed, can help improve sleep quality and reduce stress-related sleepwalking.
4. Does sleeping in a cooler room help prevent sleepwalking?
A comfortable sleep environment plays a crucial role in preventing sleepwalking. Overheating or discomfort during sleep can cause more frequent awakenings, increasing the risk of sleepwalking. Natural bedding, like wool duvets from Devon Duvets, helps regulate body temperature, providing a stable and comfortable sleep environment.
5. How can I make my bedroom safer for someone who sleepwalks?
If someone in your home sleepwalks, consider these safety measures:
- Remove obstacles and sharp objects
- Make sure doors and windows are safe
- Use baby gates at the top of stairs to avoid falls
- Ensure bedding and sleepwear are comfortable and temperature-regulating
6. Can certain foods or drinks trigger sleepwalking?
Alcohol, caffeine, and heavy meals before bed can all interfere with deep sleep, making sleepwalking episodes more likely. Reducing stimulants before bedtime and maintaining a healthy, consistent sleep routine can help.
7. Is sleepwalking dangerous?
Sleepwalking itself is not harmful, but it can become dangerous if the sleepwalker trips, falls, or leaves the house. If sleepwalking is frequent or risky, consult a sleep specialist for further evaluation.
8. How can I stop sleepwalking?
There is no single "cure" for sleepwalking, but you can take steps to reduce episodes:
- Get enough sleep by avoiding sleep deprivation
- Reduce stress through trying meditation or relaxation techniques before bed
- Optimise your sleep environment by using breathable, temperature-regulating bedding
- Avoid alcohol or stimulants before bed
- Stick to a consistent sleep schedule
Better sleep, fewer sleepwalking episodes
Sleepwalking remains a fascinating and sometimes mysterious condition, but one thing is clear: the quality of your sleep plays a major role in managing it.
By creating a sleep-friendly environment, reducing stress, and ensuring comfortable, temperature-regulated bedding, you can support deeper, more restorative sleep - which may, in turn, help reduce sleepwalking episodes.
If you’re looking for bedding designed to enhance your sleep quality, explore our 100% natural 100% British wool duvets, mattress toppers and pillows, individually handcrafted by experienced seamstresses at our Devon workshops.
Always consult your doctor or medical professional if you are experiencing on-going sleep deprivation and sleepwalking episodes become more regular.
