Deep Sleep: Unraveling the Connection Between Sleep Hygiene and Overall Well-being

Introduction:

Sleep, often overlooked in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, plays a crucial role in determining our overall well-being. For years, I neglected the importance of deep sleep, only to confront major health issues in my late 20s. In this blog post, I share my journey of realizing the impact of sleep hygiene on health and the transformative effects of prioritizing quality sleep.

The Neglected Element:

From childhood to my college years and early adulthood, I lived a life defined by late nights and early mornings. Even as I adopted positive habits like mindful practices, nutrition, and exercise, sleep remained on the back burner. Little did I know that my relentless pursuit of a fast-paced lifestyle was taking a toll on my health, leading to burnout and frequent illnesses.

The Wake-Up Call:

It was a visit to my functional doctor post-marathon that unveiled the truth—I was in stage 3 of adrenal fatigue. The prescription was clear: pull back on intense workouts and establish a balanced routine.

Turning Point:

Realizing that running on little sleep wasn't a badge of honor but a path to burnout, anxiety, and declining well-being, I delved into researching sleep routines. Over the last eight years, I've made significant strides in making sleep a priority, especially after experiencing severe postpartum anxiety.

Challenges and Triumphs:

Even with a demanding schedule, I've managed to incorporate practices that significantly improved my sleep quality. These include magnesium supplementation, sleep meditations, keeping fresh lavender on my nightstand, limiting caffeine intake, wearing blue light-blocking glasses, and minimizing alcohol consumption.

The Impact of Deep Sleep:

Adequate sleep is not just a luxury; it's a necessity for our body to rest and repair. Beyond feeling rested, deep sleep contributes to various aspects of our health, such as:

• Weight Loss: Studies show that people sleeping less than seven hours are 30% more likely to be obese.

• Disease Prevention: Quality sleep reduces inflammation, lowering the risk of diseases like diabetes and heart disease.

• Healthy Moods: Chronic sleep debt can lead to mood disorders, including anxiety and depression.

• Fertility: Sleep disruption can decrease the secretion of reproductive hormones.

• Immune System: Lack of sleep hampers proper immune function and slows down the body's recovery.

Conclusion:

As the pressure of the holidays looms, it's crucial to prioritize deep restorative rest. A well-thought-out sleep strategy tailored to your needs can make a significant difference in combating stress and fatigue, ensuring you stay healthy and feel your best.