sleep and stress

Unfortunately, there are times we all experience stress, particularly in times of crisis.  Many of the top ten stressors can affect just about anyone in unexpected ways.  The top ten stressors include: divorce, death in the family, illness, getting married, unemployment, retirement, new baby, change in financial status, career change and moving.

When we experience stress regularly, the effects can have negative consequences on our health.  Many research studies have found a strong connection between stress and physical illness including: colds, bowel problems, headaches, high blood pressure and heart disease.

Normally, there are simple ways to combat stress such as taking a long walk, enjoying a warm bath, or listening to favorite music. Exercise is particularly helpful because it improves your sense of well being due to increased endorphins, helps you sleep more soundly and also helps you deal with the stress you experience.

But when you find yourself in a serious crisis, it is much more challenging to get rid of stress and professional help may be needed.

It is estimated that 90% of all doctor visits are related to symptoms of stress.  In addition, stress is also linked to depression.  Depression may also lead to insomnia, or sleeplessness, and when we are experiencing sleeplessness, the lack of rest for our bodies can take a toll on our immune system, hence poor health kicks in.  Lack of sleep can also affect our job performance and our ability to be good parents, or caregivers, so very often, medication may be prescribed by a doctor.

When stress get out of hand and begins to damage our health, we need to slow down and take a look at the bigger picture. One thing we need to remember is that medication can only take care of the symptoms of stress, but won’t get rid of the causes of our stress, or even really help us to cope with the sources of stress.

Since medication for stress is usually a last resort solution, it is also wise to explore natural and herbal remedies available at most health food stores.

Jennifer Urezzio, founder of Blooming Grove Herbal Remedies in New Jersey, suggests using lavendar oil rubbed on the soles of the feet to help relax the body and promote sleep. 

This remedy is not expensive and easily available, so it might be a good alternative to help fight off stress, increase sleep and stay healthy!