Sleep plays a crucial role in our overall health and well-being. In fact, it is just as important as eating healthy and exercising regularly. Yet, many of us tend to overlook the importance of a good night’s rest, often sacrificing it for work, social events, or binge-watching our favorite TV shows. However, if sleep is not a priority for you, it’s time to rethink your habits and make some changes. And if sleep is already a priority for you, then you’re on the right track to living a healthier and happier life.

WHAT’S SO IMPORTANT ABOUT SLEEP

So, why is sleep so important? Well, for starters, sleep is when our bodies repair and rejuvenate. During sleep, our bodies release growth hormones that help with muscle repair, cell regeneration, and overall growth and development. Without adequate sleep, our bodies may not be able to perform these vital functions, leading to a host of health issues such as weakened immunity, poor cognitive function, and increased risk of chronic diseases.

HOW MUCH IS ENOUGH

But how much sleep do we actually need? The National Sleep Foundation recommends that adults get between 7-9 hours of sleep per night. However, this can vary depending on individual needs and lifestyle factors. It’s important to listen to your body and pay attention to how you feel after different amounts of sleep to determine what works best for you.

THE VITAL AUTONOMIC NERVOUS SYSTEM

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) plays a crucial role in regulating our sleep-wake cycle. The ANS is divided into two branches – the sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight response) and the parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest response). When we are stressed or anxious, the sympathetic system is activated, making it difficult to wind down and fall asleep. On the other hand, the parasympathetic system is responsible for promoting relaxation and sleep.

SLEEP WAKE HORMONES

Cortisol and melatonin are two key hormones that play a role in our sleep-wake cycle. Cortisol is known as the stress hormone and is released in response to stress or danger. When cortisol levels are elevated, it can interfere with melatonin production, the hormone responsible for regulating our sleep-wake cycle. This is why it’s important to manage stress levels and create a relaxing bedtime routine to help promote the production of melatonin and improve sleep quality.

THE KEY IS DOWN REGULATION

One way to down regulate the nervous system and promote relaxation is by turning down the sympathetic system and turning up the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve is the longest cranial nerve in the body and is responsible for regulating the parasympathetic nervous system. By stimulating the vagus nerve, we can promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality.

Good sleep hygiene is also crucial for getting a good night’s rest. This includes going to bed at the same time every night, keeping your bedroom cool and dark, and creating a relaxing bedtime routine. By following these tips, you can create an optimal sleep environment that promotes restful sleep.

Chiropractic care can also play a role in improving sleep quality by correcting interference to the autonomic nervous system. Corrective chiropractic techniques can help realign the spine and remove subluxations that may be impacting the ANS. By restoring proper nerve function, chiropractic care can help improve sleep quality and overall well-being.

ADD POLYVAGAL TO CHIROPRACTIC

Polyvagal theory is another approach that can help raise vagal tone and promote relaxation. The polyvagal theory is based on the idea that the vagus nerve plays a central role in regulating our autonomic nervous system and emotional responses. By using polyvagal techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga, we can stimulate the vagus nerve and promote relaxation, which can help improve sleep quality.

In conclusion, sleep should be a top priority for everyone, as it plays a crucial role in our overall health and well-being. By understanding the role of the autonomic nervous system in sleep, managing stress levels, and practicing good sleep hygiene, we can improve sleep quality and live a healthier life. Chiropractic care and polyvagal techniques can also help promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality. So, if sleep isn’t a priority for you, it’s time to make some changes and start prioritizing your sleep. And if sleep is already a priority for you, keep up the good work and continue to prioritize your health and well-being.

About Dr. Berkowitz  

Bringing more than 3 decades of practice experience, Dr. Bill Berkowitz focuses on balancing and corrective care, applying his expertise to provide patients with predictable, repeatable and measurable results.

Dr. Bill consistently strives to enhance the well-being of his patients by addressing the root imbalances of their problems and promoting optimal balance, alignment, and function of the spine and nervous system.

Bill’s wealth of knowledge and experience has allowed him to develop a nuanced understanding of the human body and its intricate connections. With each adjustment, he supports the body in returning to a state of balance that goes beyond mere symptom relief, focusing instead on long-term correction for his patients’ well-being.

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