Almost half of India say stress is the reason they can't sleep well: Survey

A new study reveals that while 71 per cent of Indians believe they get enough rest nearly half struggle with stress as a major disruptorFrom shared sleeping spaces and bedtime rituals to napping habits the IKEA Sleep Uncovered uncovers the unique factors shaping sleep across the country These insights are part of their largest global study surveying over 55000 people across 57 countries pulling back the covers on how the world sleepsGender disparity in stress and sleepWhile 71 per cent of Indians feel they get enough sleep stress is holding many back Almost half 48 per cent say stress is the main reason they cant sleep well Whether itrsquos from personal life or work stress affects sleep for many 30 per cent of Indians report general stress disrupting their sleep while 18 per cent say work stress is to blame Women 38 per cent reported higher stress levels than men 23 per cent This shows that stress is still impacting sleep even when people think theyre resting enoughAccording to the study men also go to bed earlier 10 pm than women 11 pm although both genders wake around 6 am While a good diet is a shared sleep enabler for both men and women 12 per cent men are able to prioritise exercise slightly more 13 per cent compared to women 11 per cent Unique sleep personalities like bed hoggers 14 per cent bed companions 30 per cent and minimalists 8 per cent reveal diverse habits that define how Indians restNapping A national passionIndians love napping with 70 per cent of people enjoying daytime naps lasting around 30 minutes Women lead the trend with 78 per cent napping compared to 63 per cent of men 65 per cent of Indians are Sleep Lovers value rest over socialising and consider it one of lifersquos greatest joys However 48 per cent are Sleep Sceptics who see sleep as sometimes a waste of time while 52 per cent are Sleep Worriers anxious about getting at least seven hours of sleepShared spaces shape sleep qualitySleeping arrangements also play a role as 48 per cent of Indians rarely or never sleep alone Among usual companions 71 per cent share their beds with partners while 2837 sleep with their children highlighting how family dynamics and shared sleeping spaces influence sleep patterns and overall wellbeingNo more counting sheepmdashgood sleep starts with ritualsTo unlock the secret to better sleep for Indians its all about setting the stage right Bedtime rituals are a must 32 per cent of people love winding down with music or podcasts while 2437 dive into a good book Bedroom essentials are also a must 23 per cent swear by special mattresses and pillows for that perfect snooze But creating the perfect sleep haven doesnrsquot stop there ndash 16 per cent count on blackout curtains or blinds to keep things pitch dark And the real gamechanger A tidy bedroom 6837 believe that an organised space is the key to better sleepScreen time gt sleep timeScreens are deeply ingrained in bedtime routines despite fears over their impact on sleep quality 86 per cent people use their phones in the bedroom soaring to 90 per cent among 1824yearoldsSusanne Pulverer CEO amp CSO Chief Sustainability Officer IKEA India said At IKEA we believe that every good day begins with a restful nightrsquos sleep With 80 years of experience we know that quality sleep isnrsquot just about the right mattressmdashitrsquos about the right environment In India where busy lifestyles shared spaces and daily stress can make unwinding a challenge we design solutions that bring comfort and order to the home From smart storage that clears the clutter to warm lighting that sets a calming mood we help turn small changes into meaningful improvements Because when homes support better sleep it leads to a brighter healthier and happier day aheadTips for a better nights of sleepThe report also offers practical tips to help everyone sleep betterbull Stick to a routine Have regular bedtimes and wake up times even on weekendsbull Max out on natural light Get lots of daylight during the day to help regulate your body clockbull Build a sleep sanctuary Create a clutterfree cosy space with comfortable bedding and dim lightingbull Unwind your mind Do breathing exercises or meditation to relaxbull Have good habits Enjoy rituals like a hot bath which can help signal to your brain itrsquos bedtimebull Donrsquot look at screens Drift off with audiobooks or podcasts insteadbull Mind your diet Avoid heavy meals caffeine or alcohol near bedtimebull Get physical during the day Regular physical activity promotes better sleepbull Donrsquot force it Let go of sleep pressure focus on relaxation insteadbull Look at the big picture Aim for consistent realistic rest rather than perfect nights