How Chiropractic Care Supports
Better Sleep During Stressful Seasons
Chiropractic care is important year round, but did you know regular adjustments can significantly improve sleep quality, especially during stressful seasons, such as the holiday season from October to December? Keep reading to learn how to support your sleep, in and out of the chiropractic office!
The Connection Between Sleep and Health
We all know that getting enough sleep is important for our health, but did you know that the quality of your sleep is just as crucial? Poor sleep has been linked to a variety of health issues, including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. It can also affect your immune system and increase your risk of developing chronic pain. As a chiropractor, I have seen firsthand the effects of poor sleep on my patients’ overall health and well-being. Just like personal hygiene, sleep hygiene is important to allow your body and mind to recover from life’s ever increasing pace, especially during stressful seasons of life.
The Role of Late Night Eating
Eating late at night can disrupt your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, also known as your circadian rhythm. When you eat too close to bedtime, your body has to work harder to digest the food, which can keep you awake and make it difficult to fall into a deep sleep. Many times your heart rate will remain elevated later into your sleep cycle, not allowing the body to properly flow through the stages of sleep. This can also lead to acid reflux and heartburn, making it even harder to get a good night’s rest.
The Impact of Screen Time
The blue light emitted from electronic devices such as smartphones, laptops, and televisions can suppress the production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates your sleep-wake cycle. This can make it harder for you to fall asleep and stay asleep. Additionally, scrolling through social media or watching a thrilling TV show before bed can stimulate your brain and make it difficult to relax and unwind.
How Chiropractic Care Promotes Better Sleep
- By correcting spinal and postural issues, chiropractic care can help improve posture and open up the chest, allowing for deeper, more efficient breathing during sleep.
- This can lead to more predictable sleep patterns and reduce sudden awakenings.
- Research has shown that spinal adjustments can increase heart rate variability (HRV), a marker of a more balanced and relaxed nervous system.
– Better circulation: Proper spinal alignment is essential for optimal blood flow throughout the body, including to the brain and muscles.
- Improved circulation ensures that tissues get the oxygen and nutrients they need, which is crucial for the body’s restorative processes during sleep.
Tips for Better Sleep
If you’re struggling with getting enough sleep, here are some tips to help you avoid late night eating and screen time:
- Try to finish your last meal at least 2 hours before bedtime.
– Make your bedroom a screen-free zone and avoid using electronic devices at least 1-2 hours before bed.
– Instead of scrolling through social media or watching TV, try reading a book, taking a warm bath, or practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation.
- Get adjusted regularly to avoid common physiologic causes of sleep disruption!
Conclusion
As a chiropractor, I believe that taking care of your body naturally is the key to optimal health and well-being. By avoiding late night eating and screen time, you can improve the quality of your sleep and enjoy a variety of health benefits, such as boosting your immune system, improving your mood, and increasing your energy levels. These, combined with regular chiropractic adjustments, will set you up for better quality sleep, leading to a better quality life. Getting enough high-quality sleep can also help with weight management, as poor sleep has been linked to overeating and weight gain. If you’re struggling with sleep issues, I encourage you to make these simple changes and see the positive impact it can have on your overall health. Remember, a good night’s sleep is essential for a healthy and happy life.
A great article to learn more about sleep hygiene can be found here: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0033062023000117
***Disclaimer*** This information is intended for educational purposes only and is not meant to substitute for medical care or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition.