There once was a time where the alarm clock reigned supreme. So much so, that when traveling, many of us would pack our beloved little clocks into our bags to ensure we'd be up on time. Times, however, have changed, and the age-old alarm clock is now being put to bed.
A recent survey by budget hotel chain, Travelodge, has revealed that 71 per cent of UK adults believe that alarm clocks are now obsolete.
The survey, which encompassed 3,000 participants, has highlighted a growing trend; mobile phones are fast replacing the traditional alarm clock. 36 per cent of those questioned said they now prefer using the latest ring tone to wake them, as opposed to the shrill bleeping of an alarm clock.
Other popular methods of waking the nation’s sleepers included:
- The voices of Terry Wogan and the UK’s favourite DJ the chirpy Chris Moyles (34%)
- Setting the body clock to wake up naturally (17%)
- Relying on partner to wake up (7%)
- Being nuzzled by pet cat or dog (5%)
- By listening to favourite tunes on the iPod (1%)
Chris Idzikowski, Sleep Expert from Edinburgh Sleep Centre, goes one step further and claims alarm clocks to be a health hazard, stating:
“Alarm clocks have been shown to cause heart rhythm irregularities which might cause a heart attack. The alarm clock’s strident ringing tone can be a shock to the body and mind. My recommendation is to wake up naturally as the awakening is part of a natural sleep-wake cycle and it can help you feel less groggy. Sleep tends to run on a 90 minute cycle, try to sleep in multiples of 90 minutes.”
So, dear readers, who still uses a standalone alarm clock? Has your mobile phone taken over waking-up responsibilities, or do you use your body clock to wake up naturally? Let us know in our community poll.
