Sleepwalking by car, bus or train is a common phenomenon, even if you have received enough sleep before. Many people easily feel sluggish, even thinking twice during a trip, especially when they have to sit for a long time or go during rush hour.
According to Dr. Basavaraj S. Kumbar, an internist at Aster Whitefield Hospital (Bengaluru, India), feeling sleepy when walking comes from a combination of a quiet environment, passive sitting posture, rhythmic movement and fatigue.
Reasons why you are sleepy on the go
Rapid movement: The shaking or shake of the vehicle affects the vestibular system in the ear, helping the body relax similar to how a newborn sleeps. This causes the brain to lose vigilance and easily lead to sleepiness.
White noise: Even and continuous sound from engines, machines or vehicles makes the brain not have to process a lot of new information. When the brain is less active, the body is more likely to feel tired and sleepy.
Pre-accurate fatigue: Lack of sleep or fatigue will clearly appear when the environment is quiet, causing the body to quickly turn into a sleepy state.
Lack of natural light: Natural light helps maintain circadian rhythm. When there is a lack of light, the brain increases the production of melatonin - a sleep-inducing hormone, making you feel more tired on the journey.
Monotony: Moving through the same repetitive scene or lack of stimulation causes the brain to decrease alertness, leading to sleepiness.
Poor posture: Sitting for long periods in one position slows blood circulation and increases lethargy, making the body more susceptible to sleepiness.
Who is susceptible to sleepiness while moving?
Dr. Basavaraj S. Kumbar says that not everyone experiences this condition. People who get enough sleep are often more alert, while those who are tired, drunk or sensitive to quiet environments are more likely to sleep. Sleep habits, stress levels, and each person's reaction to the environment also determine how sleepy they feel when traveling.
How to stay alert while traveling
Dr. Kumbar suggests some ways to help avoid falling asleep on the road:
Keep your mind busy: Listening to music, pods, chatting, or working gently helps your brain stay alert.
Get enough sleep before the trip: Helps the body not accumulate fatigue.
Exposure to natural light: Helps reduce sleep and maintain circadian rhythm.
Gentle exercise: Stretch, change your posture, breathe fresh air and drink enough water to help blood circulation and increase energy.
Use caffeine appropriately: Drinking tea or coffee helps stay alert for a short time.
