Sleep Patterns Change During Long Holiday? Health Impacts Explained

Changes in Sleep Patterns during Long Holidays are often considered normal. However, habits like staying up late or having irregular sleep can directly impact physical health, ranging from easy fatigue to difficulty concentrating.

Neurology specialist from the Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital (FKUI RSCM), Astri Budikayanti, explained that changes in sleep schedules during Holidays can disrupt the body's biological rhythm.

"Usually we have a routine schedule, for example, working from morning to evening. During holidays, social activities increase, people often stay up late or watch shows until late at night, so sleep times change and the body becomes confused adjusting its rhythm," said Astri in an online health discussion.

Body Rhythm Can Be Disrupted

According to Astri, the human body has a biological system that regulates sleep and wake times through specific hormones. 

When someone is used to sleeping and waking at the same time, the body will automatically adjust the production of these hormones.

However, when sleep patterns change for several days, the body needs time to readjust to its natural rhythm.

"If the change is only one or two days, usually the body can still adjust. But if it's more than two or three days, the sleep rhythm can start to become chaotic," she said.

Fatigue and "Brain Fog" Appear

Sleep pattern disturbances not only make the body feel tired but can also affect brain function. 

One common effect is "brain fog," a condition where a person finds it difficult to think clearly and focus.

This condition usually appears after several days of insufficient sleep or poor-quality sleep. 

As a result, daily activities become disrupted, especially those requiring high concentration.

Decreased Immune System

Besides affecting energy and focus, lack of sleep can also weaken the immune system. This makes the body more susceptible to illness, especially when the body's condition is unstable.

"Overall, it might still be manageable, but there is certainly an impact on the immune system," she said.

Sleep is Important for Health

Astri emphasized that sleep is not just a time for rest, but an important process for the body and brain to recover.

Humans even spend about one-third of their lives sleeping, so maintaining a consistent sleep pattern is crucial for physical and mental health.

"Sleep is not just about resting, but also a vital biological process for restoring the body and brain," she said.

Tips for Maintaining Sleep Patterns During Holidays

To stay healthy during holidays, it's important to keep the sleep schedule regular. Try not to stay up late too often and maintain the same wake-up time every day.

With a regular sleep pattern, the body will stay fit, the mind more focused, and the risk of illness can be minimized even while enjoying a long Holiday.