ZZZZZ... Sleep Matters

Imagine the feeling of waking after a good night’s sleep. You feel refreshed, energized, and positive. Now, think of a time when you woke up feeling the opposite. Throughout the day, you may have had trouble concentrating, become frustrated, and have increased food cravings.

Does that sound familiar?

While most people recognize that sleep is crucial for maintaining good health, most of us don’t know about the more individualized effects it has on the body, whether you are getting too much or too little.

Surely you have felt tired from a night of restless sleep, but were you aware that tossing and turning decreases your immunity? Encourages weight gain? Affects your short-term and long-term memory? Surprising, isn’t it?

Quality sleep affects: -The brain, by increasing concentration and memory retention -Mood by decreasing the risk and prevalence of depression -Disease risk by lowering the chance for heart disease, stroke, and diabetes -Immunity by strengthening immune function and decreasing the risk of the common cold -Athletic performance by improving speed, accuracy, and reaction times -The body’s repair mechanism by lowering inflammation and repairing cellular damage

A good night's sleep benefits are much more valuable than ANYTHING keeping you away from it. Put yourself first and set up a relaxing nightly routine catered to falling and staying asleep.

I guarantee it will be life-changing!

Essential oils are a very concentrated version of the natural oils found in plants and provide various health benefits. Try some essential oil blends topically or in a diffuser to help prep your body for the perfect night’s sleep!

Blend #1: 4 drops Lavender 3 drops Bergamot 2 drops Patchouli 2 drops Ylang Ylang

Blend #2: 3 drops Sandalwood 3 drops vetiver 3 drops Lavender 2 drops Chamomile

Sources:

http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20459221,00.html#steer-clear-of-depression-0

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-reasons-why-good-sleep-is-important#section8