Sleep is vital, without sleep we can be cranky, withdrawn, agitated, and just not ourselves. Sleep impacts our day to day lives in various ways including cognitive functions such as creativity and decision making. It is essential that you are getting the right amount. Although it is not always that easy. The recommended amount of sleep is seven to nine hours a night, yet most people get between five and six hours. This is not an adequate amount if you wish to function at your optimum level.
The good news is that there are natural sleep aids one can take to influence sleeping patterns and ensure a better night’s sleep.
Magnesium
Magnesium is used for many processes in the human body, so it is no shock that this wonderful mineral can promote sleep. Magnesium can aid in helping muscles to relax. MAG365 provides high quality ionic magnesium citrate in powder form which encourages optimal assimilation and absorption, meaning the magnesium is absorbed faster in this form. Inadequate levels of magnesium can lead to weakness, muscle cramps, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Some nutritional experts recommend taking magnesium supplements in the evening before sleeping. This helps the muscles to relax and recover from the exertions of the day.
Lavender
Lavender can be great for promoting sleeping. Lavender aromatherapy can induce sleepiness and encourages better sleeping times and patterns. Burning lavender scented incense before bed can be a great way to create a relaxed atmosphere before trying to sleep. Spray a lavender pillow mist onto a cloth and lay it on your pillow. This way if the smell becomes too overwhelming you can remove the cloth rather than having to get rid of the whole pillow, had you put it directly onto your pillow.
L-theanine
Another sleep enhancing natural alternative is L-theanine, which is found in most green and black teas, as humans we do not naturally produce this amino acid. L-theanine can act on the brain to induce a sense of calmness, and reduce stress and anxiety levels. If you are looking to quieten a busy mind before bed, L-theanine can be a great option to create a sense of calmness. This then helps to induce sleep quicker while also increasing the quality of sleep.
Keep in mind that sleep affects your behaviour and ability to carry out tasks. If you want to be at your optimum health then sleep is one of the most important factors. Sleep is just as important as exercise and diet. Ensure your sleeping habit is one of your top priorities this week, and ensure you develop good sleep practices alongside any natural remedies to really reap the rewards and benefits.
For more information on this and more, visit any of Evergreen Healthfoods' seven Galway stores or see evergreen.ie/blog
