BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Podcast Improve your sleep, with Dr Christine Blume
Jan 13, 2026
In this episode, sleep scientist Dr. Christine Blume from the University of Basel discusses how our gardens and natural environments influence our sleep. She breaks down circadian rhythms, shedding light on how modern life disrupts them. Christine emphasizes the benefits of daylight and outdoor activity for enhancing sleep quality. Gardening stands out as a perfect remedy, combining exercise and exposure to nature. She also shares practical tips for improving sleep, particularly in winter, making it a must-listen for sleep-deprived listeners!
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Guest's Early Garden Patch
- Christine Blume grew up with a vegetable patch and still gardens on a balcony with tomatoes and strawberries.
- She enjoys outdoor running and cross-country skiing seasonally in Switzerland.
Internal Clock Needs Daylight
- We have an internal biological clock in the brain that runs near 24 hours and synchronizes bodily functions.
- Natural light-dark cycles are the main cue that align this clock with the environment.
Chronotype Reflects Internal Rhythm
- Individual circadian period length varies and shapes chronotype (larks vs owls).
- Shorter periods tend to be early types and longer periods to late types, affecting sleep timing.