We asked Thom at Catalyst & Flow about the importance of a good night’s sleep:
“Sleep is an absolute non-negotiable for me. It’s one of the main things I ask about to all my clients in clinic, both in initial consults and follow ups. The importance of sleep for optimal health cannot be underestimated.
The scientific literature has demonstrated the numerous benefits of getting a good night’s sleep – a 7.5 – 8hr sleep that is deep, restorative and (ideally) undisturbed. These include:
😴 Reducing risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, stroke and Type 2 Diabetes
😴 Improving cognitive performance
😴 Supporting the immune system
😴 Regulating blood glucose and increasing insulin sensitivity
😴 Improved athletic/exercise performance
Chronic poor sleep has been linked to:
😴 Depression, anxiety and mood fluctuations
😴 Inflammation
😴 Increased body weight
😴 Blood glucose dysregulation and insulin resistance
While you’re asleep the body is actually quite busy repairing, restoring and essentially cleaning house. Growth hormone pulses through the body, playing a vital role in cell repair & turnover, the metabolism of old DNA and the recovery of muscle tissues.
Most of us also dream when we are asleep. Some have lucid, abstract dreams, others have vivid dreams that could be the plot of a film! The jury is still out as to the actual function of dreams, but new research suggests it is the mind’s way of sorting through images and messages the brain has received to delete the useless and form long-term memories from the useful.
One of the keys to good sleep hygiene is a calming wind down routine that supports the natural cycle of the circadian rhythm. Please refer back to my post about night-time rituals which is all about this.
Invest is a good bed, pillows and bedding, make your bedroom your sanctuary.
When it comes to sleep – get selfish and make it a priority because there’s more than meets the eye to getting some shut eye.”
Catalyst & Flow’s specialist areas of focus include men’s health (both general & hormonal), gut & digestive health, autoimmune condition, stress & anxiety management, insomnia & fatigue.
As an introductory offer, Thom is offering 25% off initial consultations for new clients.
For more details and to book a consultation head on over to…
- Online: www.catalystandflow.com
- Email: thom@catalystandflow.com
- Instagram: @catalyst_and_flow