A good night’s sleep is vital to your mental and physical health.
When it comes to overall health, there are a few things that are absolutely non-negotiable: nutrition, physical exercise, and sleeping. Without those three things it is impossible to be in peak condition, and going without any of them can have dire consequences in your life, and can even lead to death. Of the three, the most elusive for most people is probably a good night’s sleep.
In this day and age, we are glued to our phones, focused on our jobs, and plugged into technology all the time. The stressors in our lives are amplified by the fact that we are constantly exposed to new, and often stressful stimuli, from the moment we wake up, to the moment we attempt to fall asleep. That is, if we can even fall asleep.
READ MORE: Could Technology Addiction be Affecting Your Sleep?
Sleep is paramount to our overall health, both mentally and physically. Insufficient sleep makes us groggy during the day, affects our ability to problem solve and think critically, and can even lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and diabetes. I can’t say it enough, sleep is important.
However, I am aware that almost everyone, especially us working moms, may experience problems falling asleep. I am a huge proponent of trying to find natural solutions to problems like this. So here are five natural herbs that you can find at your local grocery store, that will help you get a better night’s rest, and support your day-to-day health.
Melatonin– Easily the most well-known natural sleep aid, melatonin works by regulating sleep cycles, since darkness naturally prompts the body to produce melatonin, which signals that it is time to prepare for sleep.
5-HTP– Also known as 5-hydroxytryptophan, 5-HTP is a naturally occurring amino acid can not only help you get a good night’s sleep, but it can also fight depression and aid in weight loss.
L-theanine- Also found in green tea leaves, L-theanine helps to stimulate the type of brain waves you access during deep meditation.
Valerian Root– Although in about 10% of people, valerian root can actually create energy, in others it is an effective sleep aid. It never hurts to try it out however.
Passionflower– Passionflower is known to have calming effects, which is why it is used as a sleep aid. It also works as a mild muscle relaxant, for all you athletic insomniacs out there.