Everyone experiences stress throughout life. Sometimes it’s mild, sometimes it’s unbearable. Unfortunately, it’s very common to be stressed. Stress unbalances the ANS (autonomic nervous system) which is already unbalanced as a result of menopause. It therefore makes symptoms even worse. The LaBalance device works by rebalancing the ANS, however, high stress will work against this. It’s, therefore, vital you start reducing stress if you notice your symptoms are increasing. Sleep seems to be such a huge contributor to stress. Correcting your sleep pattern so you’re getting at least eight hours and taking steps to improve the quality of sleep, can massively improve stress levels.
Switching Off Electronics at Least an Hour Before Bed
We all know it, but we never do it! Turn off that TV, put your ipads and phones to one side. You need at least an hour without electronic stimulation before bed. It really will make all the difference, so try it every day for a week and see how quickly you start falling asleep. It’s also advisable to switch off the wifi before bed each night.
Try Meditation Before Bed
Meditation is the simple act of clearing your mind and concentrating on your breath for a period of time. There are loads of great apps you can download which offer guided meditation. Just 10 minutes before bed will help reduce stress, calm anxieties and put your body in a state of relaxation. Sleep is so much easier when you’ve taken those steps.
Cut Out Caffeine In the Day
Too much caffeine throughout the day or late in the evening will impact on your quality of sleep. It can, unfortunately, become a vicious circle. A bad night’s sleep might leave you reaching for the coffee to kick-start the day. When that first coffee wears off, your body starts telling you to get more caffeine into your system. At nighttime the process starts again, you’re unable to sleep and the quality of the sleep you do get is compromised.
Get More Natural Light Throughout the Day
Start trying to get as much natural daylight throughout the day as you can. Open those curtains wide, sit near the window if you’re indoors. Take a walk to get outside if it’s the only chance you’ll have all day. Natural daylight helps your body clock reset so you feel tired in the evening and awake during the day.
Take a Walk to Clear the Mind
Talking of a walk, this could be just what you need to wind down and relax in the evening. If meditation isn’t your thing or you feel as though you need to be doing something active, walking is ideal. Not only will it help you sleep, you’re getting in that daily exercise.
You’ve probably got your own methods and techniques for reducing stress. Some of us like to take a spa day,or spend a weekend doing absolutely nothing. Some of us need to let it all out at the gym or do an extreme sport. We are all unique and each stress is unique. However, sleep is absolutely crucial to our physical and mental well-being. The first step you take should be to improve your sleep.