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Sleep: A valuable component to health!
Last week we started talking about sleep and its importance to our health and well-being. We looked at how lack of sleep is linked to depression, obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Today, we will talk about WHY there might be a sleep problem and how to overcome it without the use of drugs.
 Why can't I sleep?
Sleep is as natural as the sun rising in the east and setting in the west. When we have a problem with our sleep, it is because there has been a disturbance in the natural function of our body or some imbalance has occurred. Sleep problems fall into two divisions: internal and external. We will first address the internal problems.
Adrenals and thyroid imbalances can be a causative factor of insomnia. Often just by strengthening them, the sleep issue is resolved. Another organ that affects sleep is the liver. When it is not functioning properly a person may wake up around 3 a.m. and not be able to go back to sleep. There can also be a structural problem when sleep is an issue. Body Stress Release (BSR) has helped people as well. Although it is not as common as a problem, the nervous system must also be addressed when sleep is an issue.
External problems that upset our sleep vary. A big one can be electromagnetic fields, such as computers, cell phones, ipods, TV, and such like. All of these must be out of the bedroom at night. One must limit their exposure to these throughout the day as well. Getting a device that protects one from the emission is also a good idea.
Another problem that will affect sleep is drugs, and especially mind altering drugs. Whether a person is presently on them or had been on them in the past, these all can affect one's sleep. One must get off of these drugs, and then work to heal the damage done by them.
Sedation and anesthesia will also affect one's sleep, as these alter conscience. In my 20's, I had two surgeries for endometriosis, and after both times my sleep was greatly affected even months later. Be aware of this, and do not undergo procedures using sedation unless absolutely necessary.
Another issue that can affect our sleep is the time we go to bed. Our body is geared for sleeping when it is dark and getting up in the light.
Overcoming sleep difficulties
Identify and address the underlying cause of your sleep problem. This is not always easy, but through muscle-testing and consultation, we often can help identify the causative factor(s). Then we can address the issue accordingly.
- Make sure your bedroom is free of EMFs (electromagnetic fields). EMF does affect our sleep so day-time exposure must be dealt with as well. For more information, visit www.ElectroMagneticHealth.org
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol, since both of these can disrupt your sleep.
- Relax before bed time with a bath, read a book, journal, listen to relaxing music, etc.
- Avoid drugs.
- Exercise does help, but do not do it late in the evening.
- Eat well and avoid foods you might be sensitive to.
Herbs that help
At Herbs4You we have fresh Valerian root that has helped many people get a good nights rest. We also have our Snooze Tincture and Dr. Christophers Slumber Capsules and Sleep Well Spray.
I trust this has helped you and if you have any questions or want to have a consultation, please feel free to contact me.
We're here to help you!
Amy Willis, Your Local Herbalist
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Dr. Christopher's
