Pillar III- Sleep
This is a continuation of our pillar blogs from February. See Pillar I- Nutrition/ Digestion / Elimination posted on Feburary 13th and Pillar II-The Mind-Body Connection / Stress reduction posted on February 16th.
Pillar III-Sleep
Consistent sleep and wake cycles, sleeping in fresh or purified air, and sleeping without artificial lights contribute to balanced sleep. Regular, deep sleep boosts the immune system, decreases depression, and helps the body regenerate and grow. There exists many natural ways to improve sleep and relax your body without becoming addicted to pharmaceutical sleep medications.
Having consistent sleep and wakes cycles maximizes melatonin secretion and balances your hormones. Adequate melatonin levels contribute to feelings of well-being and reduce the risks of many types of cancer. Hormonal problems such as low libido, menopause and premenstrual tension can all be improved with regular sleep.
Sleeping in fresh air or with an air purifier in your bedroom also increases the quality of sleep as well as boosts your immune system. When you sleep among pollutants, dust, and mold then the immune system has to work hard all night long combating these irritants. Fresh air or air purification can achieve this goal.
Sleep in the dark to optimize melatonin secretion. Even the light from your alarm clock or personal computer can disturb the diurnal rhythms of melatonin secretion. Turn your alarm clock around, get black-out blinds or a good, soft eye pillow to sleep restfully in the pitch dark.
Having trouble falling to sleep? Try Good Elements’ Dream Supply for a natural, non addictive but effective sleep aide.
Stay Tuned for Pillar IV, Exercise and Movement
Yours in health,
Dr. Britta Zimmer
Chief Naturopathic Physician & Founder
Tags: diet healthy living, insomnia vitamins, natural sleep supplements, nutritional supplement
