Why Good Sleep Hygiene Alone Hasn't Solved Your Sleep Issues
By: Kelly Murray, Certified Adult Sleep Coach, FDN-P
Are you one of the countless individuals who have diligently followed sleep hygiene tips in hopes of finally getting a good night's sleep, only to find yourself still tossing and turning?
If so, you're not alone.
While sleep hygiene is undoubtedly important, there's a crucial aspect that often gets overlooked: the profound influence of stress on our physical health and sleep patterns.
The Overlooked Role of Stress on Sleep
STRESS TRIGGERS “FIGHT-OR-FLIGHT”
Let's delve into the science behind this phenomenon. When we experience stress, whether it's from work, relationship issues, or other sources, our bodies enter a state commonly known as "fight-or-flight." In this state, our adrenal glands kick into overdrive, releasing hormones like cortisol and adrenaline to provide us with the energy needed to tackle the perceived threat. Our respiration and our blood sugar increase. Basically our bodies prioritize survival above all else. Makes sense, right?
When Stress Becomes Chronic
Now, this response is essential for dealing with acute stressors. However, problems arise when we find ourselves stuck in this state for extended periods. Chronic stress keeps our bodies in a perpetual state of high alert, diverting resources away from essential functions like hormonal balance, immunity, and digestion.
CHRONIC STRESS + PHYSICAL DYSFUNCTION GO HAND-IN-HAND
The consequences of this prolonged stress response are far-reaching. Hormonal imbalances, such as estrogen dominance, can disrupt our sleep cycles and leave us feeling super anxious. (Check out my video about Estrogen Dominance and Sleep to learn more.) Inadequate digestion leads to nutrient deficiencies, including crucial sleep-supporting nutrients like Vitamin D, B vitamins, iron, and amino acids.
Moreover, when our immune system is suppressed due to chronic stress, we become more vulnerable to infections, including gut infections like parasites. These infections can further disrupt our sleep and exacerbate existing issues. (Just a side note, I have another video explaining how these little buggers wreak havoc on our sleep.)
The Solution Is Hiding Behind Physical Dysfunction
SLEEP ISSUES ARE THE SYMPTOM
So, what's the solution for those of us who have diligently tried to improve our sleep hygiene to no avail? The key lies in understanding that sleep disturbances are often symptomatic of deeper underlying issues related to stress and physiological dysfunction.
TESTING, NOT GUESSING
While sleep hygiene remains an essential aspect of promoting healthy sleep, it's crucial to recognize when additional intervention is needed. Functional testing, such as Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA), Dutch Complete, GI Map, neurotransmitter testing, and comprehensive blood work panels can provide valuable insights into the root causes of your sleep struggles.
By uncovering and addressing these underlying imbalances and dysfunctions through diet, lifestyle and supplements, we can restore function and pave the way for more rejuvenating sleep. A functional health practitioner, like me, can run these tests for you and put together a personalized plan.
It’s Time to Get Back to Sleep
If you've been struggling with sleep despite your best efforts, it may be time to dig deeper and explore personalized solutions tailored to your unique needs.
Ready to take the next step towards better sleep? Book a complimentary discovery call with me to learn more about how functional testing and personalized protocols can help you reclaim your nights and wake up feeling refreshed and revitalized so that you can feel and be your very best.
Sweet Dreams
Kelly Murray is a certified adult sleep coach and an award-winning pediatric sleep consultant based in Chicago offering sleep coaching services nationwide.