We all find it hard to get to sleep from time to time, but several days of poor sleep can really take its toll. Three in 10 people in Ireland struggle to get enough sleep, and this has a knock-on effect on how they function mentally, emotionally, and physically the following day.
Why can’t I sleep?
Anxiety, stress, and depression can all affect our sleep quality, but in turn, not getting enough sleep aggravates these conditions, making it a difficult cycle to break. A night of tossing and turning has a really detrimental effect on body and mind, and worrying about it can make the problem worse.
Why is sleep important?
Vital functions occur in the body when you sleep, leaving you feeling rested and energised, improving memory, and reducing inflammation and boosting your immune system. Sleep deprivation is not just a problem for the mind, causing restlessness and anxiety. Without good quality sleep you are also at higher risk for diabetes, heart attack, and stroke, among other conditions.
Is there anything I can change in my lifestyle that might help?
· Exercising regularly, particularly outdoors, has been shown to aid sleep.
· Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and drinking lots of fluids in the hours before bed.
· Keep your bedroom dark and cool, and leave phones and tablets in another room.
· Relaxing your body and mind before bed will go a long way to a restful night – reading, listening to music, or having a warm bath all help to slow the body down.
Are there effective natural remedies to help me sleep?
New Nordic Melissa Dream
Melissa Dream is non addictive natural supplement can help calm the mind and body. With magnesium and B vitamins to help relax restless muscles and help boost serotonin, it also contains camomile which has a calming effect. The two main ingredients are lemon balm and L-theanine which have been shown to raise levels of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA ) and alpha waves in the brain, helping to calm the mind.
Irish Botanica Peace & Calm
If you would prefer a licensed herbal sleep tonic, Peace & Calm from Irish Botanica is an option. This is a valerian product with oils which create a warming sensation in the body, and has pleasant liquorice and orange taste. Peace & Calm is a medicinal product used for the temporary relief of symptoms of mild stress and to aid sleep, based on traditional use only. Always consult your doctor if you are on other medication and if you suffer from chronic insomnia.
What about anxiety?
FMD Stressveda
Mental fatigue can set in around now from worrying about uncertainty, online learning, or work deadlines. FMD Stressveda® contains a blend of organic ashwagandha root plus plant sourced B vitamins that contribute to normal mental performance, normal functioning of the nervous system, and a reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
Talk to one of Evergreen's fully trained staff in any of its seven Galway stores, or access online health advice at [email protected].
