Why Sleeping in Alaskan Summers in Difficult (If it Isn’t Obvious)
Alaska is a big state. It’s particularly big from north to south, spanning a total 1,300 miles. Because this state is so big, there are differences in what the north and south experience. Southern parts of Alaska have summer light transitions that are uncomfortable but not drastically different than much of the northern part of the lower 48. From Anchorage on up, however, the transition ranges from drastic to as extreme as it gets.
How much you have to prepare for your transition, and how much it may affect you, largely depends upon:
- How far north you are
- How sensitive you are to light
- Perhaps most importantly, what existing measures you have taken to normalize your circadian rhythm during the winter
On the last bullet point if you have been diligent about any of the following, the transition will likely be easier:
- Using light therapy
- Maintaining pre-sleep rhythm
- Having consistent exercise and eating/drinking habits
- Vitamin D therapy