Herbs to help you relax
We spend about one-third of our lives sleeping; to recharge, rejuvenate and rest our bodies. What we eat, drink and think can have an impact on our sleep. When we rest, our bodies release hormones that aid the immune system and allow our body and mind to recharge, leaving us reenergized the next day.
Here are a few tips to get optimal, restorative sleep:
It is best to avoid caffeine, alcohol and sugar before going to bed. It will interfere with your sleep patterns and deep REM (rapid eye movement).
Exercise can improve the quality of your sleep. It can help you fall asleep faster, longer and deeper.
Eating the right foods, such as bananas, avocados, dates and figs are rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that promotes the production of serotonin. It is then converted into the sleep hormone melatonin during the night.
Since the days are shorter and colder in the winter, they tend to keep us inside, and disrupt the body's circadian rhythm. Try to step outside first thing in the morning, to get sunlight.
Herbs can help you drift off to sleep naturally, without leaving you feeling groggy. Here are a few of Ierba’s favorite ones:
Chamomile - The Gentle Relaxant
Helps you unwind from nervous tension
Eases irritability
Hops - The Natural Sleeping Pill
Contains lupulin, a strong yet safe, reliable sedative
Calms the spirit, stabilizes nerves and eases anxiety
Passionflower - The “Monkey Mind” stopper
Stops racing thoughts
Slows down the breakdown of serotonin and norepinephrine
Skullcap - The Muscle relaxant
Stimulates the brain to produce calming endorphins
Eases muscle spasms
Lavender- The Peacemaker
It’s mood-lifting yet calming effects help with insomnia
Try Ierba’s “Noches” tea -
Take a sip, wind down and drift off to sleep.
“Quiet the mind and the soul will speak.”
— Buddha
