Tag Archives: sleep aids

Are Sleep Aids Safe?

Do you rely on sleep aids to help you sleep? You might be wondering if sleep aids are safe. I will readily admit that I depend on them on a weekly basis. Most of the time I feel sleep-deprived, some of that is brought on by me and some of that is due to my body going through changes. Getting up early everyday and not getting adequate sleep at night can make for challenging days so I do look forward to Friday night when I can take a sleep aid and get a solid night of sleep. This also allows … Continue reading →

Holiday Sleep Loss

Do the holidays leave you feeling rested? Or are you tired from all the extra stuff — the parties, the running around, the shopping, the extra commitments? Sleep can become a problem during the holiday season. Why? Maybe you’ve got more on your social calendar. Maybe you’ve got to squeeze in shopping between work and family time. Maybe you’ve got unresolved issues with family members you’ll be seeing at the holidays — the worry and stress can cause you to lose sleep. Maybe you’re drinking more — parties often mean alcohol, and alcohol can interrupt your normal sleep cycle. So … Continue reading →

Another Look at Natural Sleep Aids

Despite being really tired, I slept very poorly last night. I knew I had to get up early for a conference call and was worried that I would oversleep or miss my alarm. Instead, I spent the night dozing lightly and tossing and turning. I must have looked at the clock a hundred times! At least… that’s what it felt like. My bad luck — I have another early morning call tomorrow. I’m hoping I’ll sleep easier tonight, but I wouldn’t mind some help, either. And I’m sure I wasn’t alone in my sleeplessness last night — insomnia is a … Continue reading →

Herbal Sleep Aids: Valerian

Valeriana officinalis (more commonly known as valerian) has been long used as a tranquilizer. The plant is native to Europe, North America, and parts of northern Asia. It was popularly used in ancient Greece and Rome to treat heart conditions, and was hailed as a cure-all during the Middle Ages. Valerian is mainly used in treating the nervous system and calming the whole body. It can be used as a pain reliever, anti-inflammatory, digestive toner, and sedative. If you have heard of or used valerian, it was probably in relation to sleep. Valerian can help you fall asleep more easily … Continue reading →