Trouble sleeping? Sleep is something we often take for granted. We all need it to function and it's only when you can't nod off or find yourself tossing and turning at all hours, you realise how precious it can be. Not being able to sleep can be an incredibly frustrating experience. And on top of it all, you're exhausted the next day. If you are struggling to sleep, there are some practical things you can do to try and break the cycle as well as some natural sleep remedies that may be of help.
Why am I having trouble sleeping?
Of course, we all have trouble sleeping from time to time, but several days of poor sleep can really take its toll. 3 in 10 people in Ireland struggle to get enough sleep, having a knock-on effect on how they function mentally, emotionally and physically the following day. And if you're prone to bouts of insomnia, it can potentially cause serious health problems down the line as well.
Stress and an overloaded mind can all make our sleep quality worse, but in turn, not getting enough sleep aggravates this, making it a difficult cycle to break. A night tossing and turning has a really detrimental effect on the body and mind, and worrying about it can make the problem worse.
Why is sleep important?
Vital functions occur in the body when you sleep, leaving you feel rested and energised, improving memory, reducing inflammation and maintaining your immune system. Sleep deprivation isn't only a problem for the mind, causing restlessness and anxiety. Research suggests, without good sleep quality you are also at higher risk for diabetes, heart attack and stroke, amongst other conditions.
Is there anything I can change in my lifestyle that might help?
- Exercising regularly, particularly outdoors, has been shown to aid sleep.
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol and drinking lots of fluids in the hours before bed.
- Keep your bedroom dark and cool, and leave those phones and tablets in another room!
- Relaxing your body and mind before bed will go a long way to a restful night - reading, listening to music or having a warm bath will all help slow the body down.
Are there effective natural sleep remedies to help me?
There are several natural sleep remedies that can help you sleep better if you've trouble sleeping. Here are 3 of our top picks:
New Nordic Melisa Dream
Melissa Dream is a non addictive natural sleep remedy that can help calm the mind and the body. Containing magnesium and B vitamins to help relax restless muscles and help produce serotonin, it also contains chamomile which has a calming effect. The two main ingredients are Lemon Balm and L-Theanine which have been shown to raise levels of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) and alpha waves in the brain, helping to calm the mind.
Irish Botanica Peace & Calm
If you'd prefer a licensed herbal sleep tonic, Peace & Calm from Irish Botanica is an option. This is a valerian product which creates a warming sensation in the body, and has a pleasant liquorice and orange taste. Peace & Calm is a medicinal product used for the temporary relief of symptoms of mild stress and to aid sleep, based on traditional use only. Always consult your doctor if you're on other medication and if you suffer from chronic insomnia.
What about anxiety?
FMD Stressveda
Mental fatigue can set in from worrying about everything from online learning or work deadlines to uncertainty. FMD Stressveda contains a unique blend of Organic Ashwagandha Root plus plant sourced B Vitamins that contribute to normal mental performance, normal functioning of the nervous system and a reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
Please note, this blog is for informational purposes only and should not replace medical advice.
It’s always best to consult your doctor before taking any new supplements, treatments or remedies if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or on medication.
Checked and updated: 4 August 2021
