THE EFFECTS OF STRESS ON SLEEP

Stress can disrupt sleep by causing difficulties in falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restorative sleep.

Chronic stress is linked to various health issues, including cardiovascular problems, weakened immune function, and mental health disorders.

Additionally, stress can elevate cortisol levels, disrupting the body's natural sleep-wake cycle. This imbalance may lead to insomnia, increased susceptibility to infections, and heightened risk of conditions like anxiety and depression.

Take this quick quiz to see if you are showing signs of stress:

Answer these questions with "yes" or "no":

• Do you frequently experience headaches or muscle tension?
• Have you noticed changes in your appetite recently?
• Do you often feel fatigued, even after a full night's sleep?
• Are you experiencing difficulties with sleep, such as insomnia or restless nights?
• Have you noticed increased irritability or mood swings?
• Is it challenging for you to concentrate on tasks?

If you answers yes to 2 or more of these then it’s time to consider some ways to combat the tension and put some simple, everyday stress management tools in place.

Signs of stress can manifest both physically and emotionally. Physical signs may include headaches, muscle tension, fatigue, and changes in appetite or sleep patterns. Emotional signs can involve increased irritability, anxiety, feelings of overwhelm, and difficulty concentrating. Paying attention to these indicators can help in identifying and managing stress before it negatively impacts overall well-being.

Managing stress through relaxation techniques and healthy coping mechanisms can positively impact sleep and overall well-being. Here are four ways things that have been proven to help:

Three easy ways to manage stress include:

Deep Breathing:

Practice deep, slow breaths to activate the body's relaxation response and calm the nervous system.

Regular Exercise:

Engage in physical activity to release endorphins, which can improve mood and reduce stress.

Mindfulness and Meditation:

Incorporate mindfulness techniques or meditation into your routine to promote relaxation

Aromatherapy for Sleep:

Weaving calming essential oils in to your nightly wind down routine can help create a soothing environment, and quieten busy minds before bed, promoting better sleep and relaxation.

Whether it’s skincare routine or home fragrance or if you love an aromatherapy bath or simple foot massage, finding ways of making aromatherapy part of your evening routine is a tried and tested way of helping our body get the rest that each and every one of us needs to stay happy well and stress free.