SLEEP…AHH...PRECIOUS SLEEP…
SLEEP…AHH...PRECIOUS SLEEP…
The past month I've noticed as the season is changing more people are having sleep challenges than usual. Some relay that this happens to them every year around this time. Others have had sleep disturbances going on for years.
What areas of the brain are the primary areas controlling sleep? The Pons, Medulla, and Midbrain. All which reside in the upper neck and directly above the upper neck. Sleep promoting cells within the hypothalamus and the brain stem produce a brain chemical called GABA, which acts to reduce the activity of arousal centers in the hypothalamus and midbrain.
What can I do to get better sleep?
As an Upper cervical Chiropractor, when the one or both of the top two vertebrae in the neck are subluxated (stuck and out of place) this often short circuits the brain stem area and can cause a hyper response in areas of the brain resulting in abnormal sleep patterns. Getting your neck checked if you aren't sleeping well should be a priority and is often a simple solution. Refer to the following study: The Health Implications of Proper Spinal Alignment and Support During Sleep
Drink enough water. 64 OZ. per day.
Limit high glycemic (elevated our blood sugar) foods such as white bread, desserts, and pasta. Or have them earlier in the day rather than later. Reduce or eliminate alcohol. It dehydrates the body and is highly glycemic.
Reduce or eliminate caffeine. Never after lunch. Obviously its a stimulant but it also dehydrates us.
LENS neurofeedback, a new modality at Bloom chiropractic and wellness Center assists the nerves and brain to function optimally often resulting in better sleep and a calmer mind. LENS Testimonial Video
Get 30 minutes of exercise a day as often as you can.
For more complex sleep issues it is important to look at nutritional and hormonal imbalances. We can discuss this and customize to you personally. Refer to the following information: Get a Good Night’s Sleep, NATURAL CALMNESS, 6 Tips For Healthy Sleep
Mineral imbalances and deficiencies and inability to absorb them is often a contributing factor to restless sleep and falling to sleep. Identifying this together can be crucial.
Toxicity, we can look at ways to help gently help with this. Start by drinking more water. Add fresh squeezed lemon juice to a glass of water upon arising.
The problems with sleep often involve combinations of all of the above.
Please feel free to give us a call if you have any questions.
In good health and a good night's sleep,
Linda Matz DC