There's actually a very valid reason you slept so badly last night

If your sleep cycle was disrupted last night, there might be a perfectly good explanation as to why.

It's common to wake up in the middle of the night for no reason at all, as well as struggling to get to sleep in the first place.

Our sleep cycles can become disrupted for a number of different reasons.

But if you found that last night's sleep (14 March) was particularly bad, there could be a legitimate reason why.

According to sleep expert Martin Seeley from Mattressnextday, last night's total lunar eclipse could have had a major impact on our sleep.

He explained: "The lunar cycle has a greater impact on biological rhythms than many people realise.

The lunar eclipse could be the reason behind your bad night's sleep. (WILLIAM WEST/AFP via Getty Images)

"When it comes to sleep, there is compelling evidence to suggest that lunar events, particularly the full moon, can be disruptive."

Seeley noted that prior research has suggested that during a full moon, participants in a study took five minutes longer to fall asleep, slept 20 minutes less overall, took longer to reach REM sleep, experienced a 30% reduction in deep sleep, and reported a noticeable drop in sleep quality.

He revealed: "Our body’s internal 24-hour clock, or circadian rhythm, is regulated by hormone levels that fluctuate in response to light exposure.

"Since light plays a crucial role in sleep onset and quality, the upcoming total lunar eclipse, which is visible from the UK from around 2:20 am and peaking at 6:20 am, has the potential to disrupt sleep by prompting people to wake earlier than usual to either witness the event, or just through the increased light exposure."

A full moon can impact the quality of sleep in a number of ways. (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

The expert said that the disruption we experience could lead to a groggy feeling the next day, as well as reduced alertness.

This is particularly when the deep sleep phase is shortened.

But what could we do next time this occurs to save ourselves from a bad night's sleep?

Because, let's be honest, there isn't a worse feeling.

"To minimise the impact, it’s essential to maintain a strong sleep routine," Seeley advised.

"Keeping your bedroom dark with blackout curtains or blinds can prevent unwanted light from interfering with sleep."

He also recommends sticking to a regular bedtime, and avoiding consuming anything with caffeine before bed.

Limiting your exposure to blue light, which is emitted from your phone or laptop screen, can also help protect sleep quality.

He concluded: "While the blood moon is an exciting event, prioritising good sleep hygiene will ensure you feel well-rested the next day.”