Sleep Peacefully with PHA

What is the purpose of sleep?

At the end of each day, we are typically thankful to sink into our beds to sleep. Human design is such that we should ideally sleep 6-8 hrs and wake up feeling fully refreshed, recharged, full of life and vitality ready to start the next working day! If we are truly honest with ourselves, how many of us feel amazing when we wake up, and what happens during our sleep?

Awake

Our brain waves and muscles are at their highest activity. We undergo activities and experience interactions and emotions.

Asleep

Our brain waves slow down and reboot which permits the release of growth hormones. These enable a complex neurophysiological and hormonal symphony to occur in the body, responsible for cell repair and inflammation reduction. Dreaming is the body’s way of processing the day’s experiences and memories.

What happens to the body when we don’t attain sufficient sleep?

Memory issues/concentration issues/mood issues
Weakened immune system
Balance issues
Risk for diabetes
Need for stimulants (Caffeine etc)
High blood pressure
Weight gain
Low sex drive
Poor balance

Why our ancestors were typically able to obtain a higher quotient of sleeping hours?

Sleep and selfcare

Getting a good night’s sleep is about understanding what causes sleep deprivation and prioritising yourself and your own wellbeing. Be honest with yourself and look at your own bedtime habits…

Tips for a good night’s sleep and new sleep routine;

Darkened room – Use black out blinds or an eye mask
Ensure your mattress is comfortable – Neither too soft or hard and sleep in natural fabrics
Optimal sleeping room temperature is around 16-18 Degrees C
No mobile phones or tablets within 2 hours of bed – ban them from the bedroom
Ensure your sleeping area is quiet – Use ear plugs if necessary
Gentle stretching, try yoga or pilates before bed
Reduce alcohol and coffee consumption
Prioritise your diet for your health and reduce processed food!
Practice mindfulness and meditation
Reduce alcohol and caffeine especially before bedtime!
Try to be in bed before 11pm to maximise your body’s healing ability!
Deep breath exercise to calm down your body and mind before sleep!