What are healthy sleep patterns and why do some of us struggle so much with getting our zzz’s? I see many patients with sleep disturbances and have noticed through the pandemic that this is a widespread issue.
I pride myself on being able to fall asleep anywhere at any time and thought this exhibited healthy sleep habits. In actual fact, most individuals like me are falling asleep because they are actually depleted and running on empty, most likely due to stress. If we swing to the other side of the pendulum, there are individuals that can’t fall and or stay asleep. This is also very likely due to stress.
I have found that in practice the best way to change long term sleep habits is to focus on stress management and treatment. Here are my recommendations for improving sleep and stress together:
1) GABA
This calming remedy stimulates the neurotransmitter in the brain that is responsible for calming and relaxation. Good for anxious people in the day and before bed if falling asleep is an issue.
2) Magnesium
This relaxant benefits sleep while also benefiting the physical body by soothing and relaxing sore muscles. This is great for those with agitated bodies around sleep.
3) Reishi Mushroom
This medicinal mushroom helps the body come out of stress related depletion. This is good for the person who is ‘wired but tired’ and running on empty.
4) Lavender
This beautiful tasting herb helps the body relax and promote sleep. It can be taken in capsules or in a nighttime latte format. It is great for anyone that wants support for existing healthy sleep habits.
5) L-theanine
This amino acid helps reduce symptoms of mental and physical stress. When stress is better managed, sound sleep is a glorious side effect. This helps with the building blocks that are needed to create healthy sleep hormones.
Note that I didn’t recommend Melatonin – this is a common sleep remedy but I only use it in certain cases with patients as it’s a hormone and can affect the hormone conversion cycle that it is a part of – your happy hormone Serotonin.
Wishing you all a happy and healthy November filled with lots of rest and sleep!
Kate Hunter is a naturopathic doctor and owner of The Creemore Apothecary.
