Reading Before Bed: Why It Radically Improves Your Sleep

Sleep is arguably the most important aspect of our health. And yet, the majority of people sleep worse than they would like. The solution is obvious, but most people do exactly the opposite.

The blue light problem

Your phone, tablet, and laptop screens produce blue light. This light suppresses the production of melatonin, the hormone that tells your body it's time to sleep. Result: your brain stays active while you're trying to relax.

Studies show that blue light before bedtime:

• Delays falling asleep by an average of 1 hour
• Reduces deep sleep phase by 15%
• Shortens total sleep time by 30-40 minutes
• Undermines your feeling of alertness the next morning

E-ink is the solution

E-ink screens, the type used in Veloura e-readers, do not produce blue light. They reflect ambient light, just like paper. Your brain perceives this neutrally: it does not suppress melatonin.

The Veloura e-reader's built-in warm lighting uses amber-tinted LEDs that minimize the blue spectrum. You can enjoy reading in bed without affecting your sleep.

The ideal evening routine

1. Stop using your phone at least 30 minutes before going to bed
2. Pick up your e-reader and read in a comfortable position
3. Set the lighting to warm and dim it as you get sleepy
4. Read until your eyes feel heavy
5. Put down the e-reader and fall asleep

Most people who follow this routine report significantly better sleep quality after two weeks.

Bonus: you dream better

People who read before bed dream more actively and vividly than people who use their phones. Stories activate your imagination in a way a scrolling session never can.