A good night's sleep
America has a sleeping problem, with 40 million Americans suffering chronic, long-term sleep disorders and an additional 20 million experiencing occasional sleeping problems, it clearly is an issue. Sleep deprivation is very stressful and can also make life feel overwhelming.
"Study the patient rather than the disease... Observe... if he sleeps or is suffering from lack of sleep" Hippocrates
Sleep is sacred, as it is when the body rests, detoxifies and renews itself. Unsurprisingly, if we are not sleeping then these fundamental bodily functions are not happening as effectively. I don't think sleep is an negotiable part of life although clearly many feel it is. It is time to alter our habits?
Sleep is
essential if one wishes to be feel balanced; maybe the vast lack of
sleep, in society, is a factor in why so many are angry,
irrational, frustrated or sad and suffer from rage whilst simply
waiting in line at the Post Office.
The mind is susceptible to what it sees, thus watching TV before bed is unwise. Reading a book or recalling things, one is grateful for, from the day can relax the body and calm the mind. Gratitude is a useful tool to master.
It is important to make the home conducive for sleep;
- No cell phones on at night
- Use ethernet cabled internet and avoid wireless devices
- Have corded telephone handsets rather than wireless
- Avoid having a television in the bedroom
- Sleep in a totally darkened room, which is cool in temperature
- Using lavender oil can help relax the mind, ease insomnia and anxiety, just a drop on the pillow can suffice.
Food allergies can also trigger insomnia and thus looking at what we are eating is, as ever, vitally important in the holistic approach to wellness. Eating real whole food nutrition, that suits your body, is really hugely important. Probiotics also have been reported to assist in sleep issues.
The advent of the electric light is also a factor in lack of sleep, as now it is possible to work until late or sit watching television but there is an off switch... for the sake of your sleep- use it!
Tags: sleep, insomnia, food allergies, lavender oil,