Too much connectivity with their workplace caused by the availability of high-tech gadgets is causing health problems for many Australians. Health experts identified insomnia and disturbed sleep as among the negative impact of bedrooms doubling as work-from-home offices and home theaters.

To address this problem, holiday makers are recommending spa vacations particularly for Aussies who are forced to work longer hours because of their increased usage of laptops, smartphones and tablets.

"For many modern businesspeople, their work day is becoming more like the 6-9 day rather than the 9-5 day and that's because technology is always there in their pocket or bag," The Australian quoted Cherry Picked Travel Director Bridget McDonald.

She explained that besides frequently communicating via their gadgets, these people often do not eat properly and lack time for physical activities.

"As more and more spa retreats open around the world, particularly throughout Asia and Australia, it seems the spa-cation is just what the doctor ordered for busy working executives," she added.

Ms McDonald said the spa-cation could range from a weekend getaway to several weeks of R&R to help busy bodies recharge their batteries and return their body, mind and soul to alignment.

She said these people don't have to travel far to experience these spa-cations since there are several such establishments in their area such as the Gaia Retreat & Spa at Byron Bay and the Wollumbin Palms at Mount Warning which offer massages, foot soaks, coconut-scented steam room sessions, boldy polishing, mud masks, hot stone therapies, facials, Indian head massage and reiki or the gentle touching of the body to balance and heal.

Nick Glozier of the Brain and Mind Research Unit at the Sydney University, said insomnia symptoms were up 4 per cent and clinical insomnia case grew 3 per cent. While some sleep experts attribute the poorer sleep quality being observed to longer travel time and sunrise boot camps, Brendan Yee, a sleep doctor, said addiction to technology is the main reason.

"Chronic sleep deprivation can also happen as we burn the candle at both ends. Work and stress, study and demanding family life is probably contributing to our poor sleep. Our sleep health has been suffering," Ms Yee said.

She said people who have ongoing sleep problems are at risks of acquiring cardiovascular ailments, psychiatric problems and hypertension. She recommended regular exercise, balance diet, less technology work as bedtime approaches and ensuring darkness and ventilation in the sleep area to address the problem.

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