The world is coming alive again, and everyone is excited to venture out.

Now that summer is here, you may be thinking about all those people & places you’ve been missing, and have some travel plans to make up for lost time.

While it’s exciting to get away, we’re reminded of a Japanese saying: “if you change your pillow, you can’t sleep.”

A change of the familiar can definitely disrupt your sleep.

At Kind Lab, we talk a lot about the importance of sleep. Because sleep loves the familiar, and any changes – as small as your pillow or as big as a far-flung vacation – can cause disruption.

Here’s why that happens, and what you can do about it so it doesn’t ruin your well-deserved vacation.

WHAT IS “FIRST NIGHT EFFECT”?

Have you ever had trouble sleeping in a new place?

Well, you weren’t imagining things – it’s called the “first night effect” and happens when your brain remains alert to protect you in unfamiliar surroundings.

Your brain is trying to be helpful, but hasn’t caught up from the days of evading predators. So while it’s unlikely that you’ll be sleeping in the same area as hungry saber tooth tigers, your brain is not convinced.

SLEEPING AT HOME v AWAY

Over time, when you’re in familiar surroundings (like your bed at home) your brain adapts to sounds, smells, and movements it’s accustomed to and knows aren’t a threat, so it doesn’t wake you up.

But in a new place, it remains more awake, keeping watch to ensure you stay safe.

On top of that, you may be trying to adjust to a new time zone, and/or mixing up your routines – all of which can also affect your ability to fall & stay asleep.

The result is a night(s) that’s a lot less restful.

FIRST OR WORSE?

Even though researchers call it “first night effect” it can last for longer, even into your first night when you’re home again.

Lost & low quality sleep, especially prolonged, can cause a lowered mood, irritability, forgetfulness, fatigue, and a host of other no-fun effects while you’re trying to enjoy your long-awaited vacation.