Having trouble sleeping is one of the main concerns I hear from folks I see in my practice. Why is it that so many of us, after having a full day of activity, have difficulty falling asleep–and staying asleep?
According to the National Sleep Foundation 30% to 40% of Americans suffer from insomnia and women are 1.3 times more likely to have chronic insomnia than men. For most of us, adequate sleep means seven to nine hours a night. The National Sleep Foundation found that the number of people sleeping fewer than six hours per night has doubled over the last four decades to nearly a third of the population.
Millions of Americans of all ages are affected by sleep problems, many with severe, chronic sleep deprivation. Living in a go-go society has meant that many of us habitually defer sleep to get other things done. Recent research indicates that chronic sleep deprivation can lead to more serious health problems than just feeling groggy in the morning—including weight gain, high blood pressure and weakened immune system. As a result of chronic sleep problems many of us go through life with both our mind and body functioning at less than optimal.
In Ayurveda, sleep is one of the three pillars of vibrant living. Having the proper amount of good quality rest is key to maintaining a balanced mind, body and Spirit. Check out my Sleep Better Cheat Sheet for creating an evening routine and get the recipe for Ayurveda’s all natural sleep aid.
From the Sleep Better Cheat Sheet choose a few of the Do’s from the list to incorporate into an evening routine and slowly eliminate the Dont’s. You will be sleeping better in no time. Report back here what worked for you and share the guide with friends who are having trouble sleeping.
Kate