In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it's easy for our stress levels to skyrocket, leading to a cascade of symptoms and disrupted sleep patterns. One key player in this scenario is cortisol, also known as our "stress hormone." Elevated cortisol levels at night can wreak havoc on our ability to unwind and get quality rest. At Balanced Friends, we've delved into at-home lab testing for cortisol, revealing common trends of elevated cortisol levels among individuals nationwide. This discovery underscores the importance of addressing cortisol levels as part of a bedtime routine for improved sleep quality and overall wellness. After reading this post, you will know exactly how to get better sleep!
How To Get Better Sleep And The Role Of Cortisol
Cortisol, produced by the adrenal glands, plays a crucial role in our body's stress response. However, when cortisol levels remain high, especially in the evening, it can interfere with the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to difficulties falling asleep and staying asleep. This disruption can manifest as a racing mind before bed, poor sleep quality, and waking up feeling unrested.
The Importance of Quality Sleep
Quality sleep is foundational for overall wellness and detoxification. During sleep, the body repairs and rejuvenates tissues and detoxifies waste products accumulated throughout the day. Therefore, optimizing sleep is essential for maintaining physical health, cognitive function, and emotional well-being.
Bedtime Routine Tips to Lower Cortisol Naturally
Epsom Salt Bath: Soaking in an Epsom salt bath before bed can help relax muscles and calm the mind. The magnesium in Epsom salt promotes relaxation and may aid in lowering cortisol levels.
Blue Light Glasses: Exposure to blue light from screens, such as phones, computers, and TVs, can disrupt the body's production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep. Wearing blue light glasses in the evening can mitigate this disruption and support the body's natural sleep-wake cycle.
Magnesium Calm Powder: Magnesium is known as nature's relaxation mineral, and its deficiency is associated with increased stress and anxiety. Incorporating magnesium calm powder into your bedtime routine can promote relaxation and help lower cortisol levels.
CBD Gummies: Cannabidiol (CBD) has gained popularity for its potential to reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. CBD gummies taken before bed may help calm the nervous system and promote restful sleep, thus lowering cortisol levels.
Sleep Help Support Supplement: A calming blend of both supplements and herbs to shut the brain off and promote a more restful night of sleep. Ask your doctor before starting any new supplements.
A bedtime routine designed to lower cortisol naturally is essential for achieving better sleep quality and overall wellness. By understanding the impact of cortisol on sleep and incorporating relaxation techniques into your nightly regimen, you can support your body's ability to unwind and promote restorative sleep. At Balanced Friends, we offer at-home lab testing for cortisol levels, providing personalized insights to optimize your bedtime routine and enhance sleep quality. Take the first step towards better sleep by checking your bedtime cortisol levels with our at-home lab test today.
This is not medical advice. This post contains affiliate links to help support Balanced Friends at no extra charge to you. Thank you for your support!