‘NATURAL
SLEEP’
Ah
sleep a sometimes-illusive state for all of us. Lying awake, peering at the
illuminated red of the alarm clock, wondering how could I be so tired yet not
sleep?
We
all go through periods in our lives where our sleep patterns are disrupted. The
emotional stress of new jobs, new relationships, or the loss of a loved one can
severely interrupt our sleep leaving us feeling sad, flat, and drained of
energy.
Insomnia
is truly the equal opportunity nuisance never discriminating against age or
sex. Studies done by corporate America
show that job error, increased illness and lost productivity due to lost sleep does not come cheap.
Another study done by The National Institutes of Health, and the Sleep
Foundation’s Omnibus Sleep in America Poll (OSAP) show that at least one third
to one half of all Americans suffer insomnia.
Most
of feel that lost sleep won’t kill
us yet The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that
an annual 200,000 auto accidents with l500 deaths are related to fatigue and bursts of micro sleep.
Each
year an estimated 9 million Americans turn to pharmaceutical sleep aids in an
effort to cope. What else can we do? Here are some of the more popular natural
sleep aids.
Magnesium 400mg taken an hour before sleep helps calm the mind,
relax the muscles and can induce drowsiness. Magnesium keeps calcium in
solution, which is an absolute for a good nights rest.
Melatonin although not for everyone, is very popular. It is one
of the best supplements to come along in years for those suffering from
insomnia. Melatonin, a naturally occurring hormone excreted by the pineal gland
helps regulate our circadian rhythms, so we achieve a state of deep restful
sleep more naturally.
Valerian, the plant equivalent of Valium has been used for
hundreds of years safely as a sleep aid and sedative in European countries. It
has wonderful sedative properties that will give you a gentle feeling of
relaxation allowing sleep to come naturally.
Chamomile has a reputation for soothing both nerves and stomach.
Its wonderfully calming effect can help bring about restful sleep. Experts
agree it is gentle enough to be used in young children.
Passion flower acts as a minor tranquilizer that produces sleep for
those who just can’t seem to close their mind down.
Some surprising sleeper robbers, alcohol, high carbohydrate foods, eating heavy meals
late, late night snacking, naps, evening exercise programs, medications, body
aches, and an overly active mind. Each individual needs to identify and deal
with individual problems, schedules and make life style changes that will
enhance and promote restful sleep.
Been there, done all that, still can’t
sleep? Seek professional help.
Start with your family doctor or consult a sleep specialist regarding a sleep
study. Till next time, Rebecca.
4/23/09