Sleep Your Way to Good Health!

Sounds wonderful right?  Almost too beautifully simple…

Research and evidence show that 40% of Canadians will experience a sleep disorder during their lifetime. Over time, it can lead to long term health consequences including obesity, heart problems, diabetes – to name a few. We can’t change the amount of distractions, pressure, expectations we encounter through living in this modern age; however, we can adjust how we approach sleep as a way to good health by utilizing simple tools to overcome factors that interfere with proper rest. 

It comes down to forming good habits:

• avoid caffeine, alcohol, late night eating and other stimulants 4-6 hours before bedtime

• make your bedroom into a sleep inducing environment, i.e.: maintain a cool, dark room and keep computers and hand held devices that emit blue light out of the bedroom

• reduce physically and psychologically stressful events before bed that can cause the body to secrete cortisol which is associated with increasing alertness

• get outside during the day for a sun break as it helps with resetting your internal clock particularly first thing in the morning and middle of the day

Utilizing bodywork techniques such as reflexology can assist in reinforcing these good habits. Regular reflexology treatments support balance, comfort and healing in the body. It is based on the principle that there are reflexes in the feet that map to other parts, glands and organs of the body. Application of pressure on these reflexes may:

• relieve tension

• improve circulation

• support the body’s efforts to function optimally

Reflexology is a unique and holistic way to support good health and help you feel better. Try a reflexology treatment by a certified reflexology therapist to help promote restful and healing sleep. It is important to note, always seek help from your doctor or other health care professional if your sleep issues persist. Wishing you all sweet dreams…