Staying Rested for The Holidays

Holiday parties may be getting in the way of your regular schedule of 8 hours of sleep per night. But if you want to get through the entire holiday season free from any colds/flu, and with enough energy and cheerful attitude for the next party, then sleep is very important (especially during this time of the year). You may not be able to get the full 8 hours per night during the holidays, but you can at least try to get a RESTFUL sleep leaving you refreshed and energized for that next party. Natural remedies are a great way to get a restful sleep as they are non-habit forming and have minimal side effects. Herbal remedies have been used for centuries for sleep and can also be useful for getting a good nights rest. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis), a widely popular herb for sleep has been shown to improve sleep quality, decrease the time delay in getting to sleep and decrease the number of night awakenings. Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) has a long history of use as a mild sedative and for reducing symptoms of restlessness, anxiety, and agitation. Lemon balm (Melissa officianlis) has been shown to increase relaxation and calmness, reduce stress, anxiety and insomnia especially when taken in combination with other herbal remedies such as Valerian and Passionflower. These herbs may be taken in the form of tinctures, capsules/pills, or teas. Melatonin is a hormone produced by our own bodies. It is involved in the body’s sleep-wake cycle and helps to facilitate sleep. Melatonin has been shown to reduce the total time required in falling asleep, and also has been shown to decrease the number of times a person wakes up at night when sleeping. If you are traveling far distances for the holidays, melatonin has also been shown to relieve symptoms of jet lag. Remember, issues with sleep can vary from person to person, therefore when using any new supplementation for sleep always consult with your health care provider. Written By: Michelle Almonte BSc, DMS (Homeopathy) Homeopathic Practitioner, Pure on Robson Street, Store Manager