We’ve been wanting to discuss the importance of sleep, and how it effects our overall health. Generally speaking, if you’re not sleeping well, you’re most likely experiencing high-levels of stress. This often impacts our health negatively and has downward spiral effect. More stress, less sleep, invokes lack of exercise and craving carbs. And that in turn, repeats itself and exacerbates the situation.

Going to the experts, we found this great article that explains all of that. From the Sleep Doctor, a great resource discussing all of these issues and interviewing experts on the issue of sleep. Written by Dr. Michael Breus, here is the link – https://thesleepdoctor.com/mental-health/stress-and-sleep/

“Not getting enough sleep has a significant impact on stress levels and overall mood. Research suggests that people who have slept better also experience less negative emotions and can recover faster from a stressful event.

On a biological level, poor sleep quality and sleep deprivation are thought to influence stress-related parameters including cortisol levels and systemic inflammation. Fragmented sleep or long-term sleep deprivation appear to contribute to higher cortisol levels. Going to sleep at times that are not concordant with natural sleep-wake rhythms can also disrupt cortisol patterns.”

The relationship between stress and sleep can also bring on digestive issues, muscle tension and pain and an elevated heart rate. However, you can get out of this cycle by first understanding how the relationship between the two work. How it affects your hormones, how you can improve the situation by actively being aware of it and managing it. It goes without saying that exercise helps balance the sleep-wake cycle, as well as what you eat and drink. Avoiding caffeine and alcohol. Things we tend to increase during periods of stress.

Our advice is always, eat right, exercise often and the rest will follow. Ensure you start healthy habits that encourage sleep,  i.e remove technological devices which inhibit sleep. All of this and more is discussed in the above mentioned article, so it’s a must read!

Written by Dr. Michael Breus, here is the link – https://thesleepdoctor.com/mental-health/stress-and-sleep/