Sleep Disturbances Increase with Stress

I've definitely seen an increase in questions from clients with sleep problems. Stress can definitely play a part in disrupting sleep patterns, from raising cortisol levels to tightening muscles. Because these can have a variety of origins it's impossible to say what may be causing your sleep disruption, but here are some general guidelines to consider:

Stress
When we're stressed, our body releases cortisol and adreneline to kick in that "fight or flight" response. Increased cortisol can contribute to weight gain as well as a disruption in our natural cortisol rhythms. Along that same line, Chronic Stress can contribute to Adrenal Fatigue which can cause sleep problems (do you get a "second wind" around 11p? Need a keg of coffee to get you going in the morning? Sensitive to sunlight? Classic Adrenal Fatigue symptoms)

Try taking a walk in the evening to help disperse that excess cortisol or take a stress-busting bath with epsom salts before bed.

Blood Sugar
Do you wake up around 3am? This could indicate a fall in blood sugar, especially if you fall into the category of folks that eat high carbs foods before bed (cereal, cookies, etc). Try eating some protein instead! This is the long burning fuel that will last longer and keep your blood sugar from dropping.

Stimulants
If you are caffeine sensitive, remove coffee, soft drinks, or other caffeine drinks from your diet (all together if you can, at least after 2pm)

Environment
Keep as much electrical equipment out of your bedroom, limiting LED lights (clock radios, TVs, DVDs, etc). Even the smallest amount of light can disrupt the pineal gland and the production of melatonin and seratonin.

These are just a few ideas. If you are experiencing sleep pattern disruption feel free to contact me for a more detailed evaluation of possible causes. Remember, when stress comes knocking on your door, B-R-E-A-T-H-E. . . .