World Cup fever disrupts sleep routines in Oman

The FIFA World Cup is rewriting bedtime routines across Oman, as fans stay up late to catch matches, often well past midnight. The excitement of global football's premier tournament means many supporters are trading sleep for 90 minutes of intense action, leading to disrupted sleep patterns.

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Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule is very important as it helps preserve our circadian rhythm.

From homes to cafés and gatherings, the late-night kick-offs and dramatic matches have become a nightly fixture for dedicated fans. This shift in schedule means many are sleeping after midnight, waking early for work, and repeating the cycle as another blockbuster game approaches. While the thrill of the tournament is undeniable, medical professionals are sounding the alarm about the toll this can take.

Dr. Pradeep Maheswari, a Senior Internal Medicine Specialist at KIMSHealth Hospital in Muscat, emphasizes the importance of a consistent sleep schedule for maintaining the body's circadian rhythm. He suggests that while occasional late nights are manageable, consecutive nights of disrupted sleep can impair concentration, mood, productivity, and decision-making.

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During occasional late-night events such as World Cup matches, people can compensate for reduced sleep by taking a short nap during their free time.

To help fans cope, experts recommend simple lifestyle adjustments. Taking a short 20 to 30-minute nap during free time can help reduce sleep debt. Limiting caffeine intake, especially late in the evening, and avoiding stimulants are crucial for falling asleep post-match. Additionally, unwinding with a book or calming music before bed can aid in achieving sound sleep after emotionally charged games. Fans are also advised to opt for lighter snacks over heavy meals late at night to improve digestion and sleep quality.

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After an exciting game, reading a book or listening to calming music before going to bed can help induce sound sleep. Adequate sleep every day is essential for relieving stress and maintaining good health.