Energy and Restlessness

The American population today is plagued with restlessness.  We are a country of overworked, sleep-deprived, hypertensive, go-getters who are constantly on the lookout for ways to improve our daily energy levels and get a better nights sleep.  We try to find ways to keep our minds from running when we do lay down to sleep, to be efficient on five hours of sleep a night, and to keep our energy levels up throughout the never-ending workday.  Enough rest is one of the necessities for healthful living.  Our bodies need recuperation time; to clean out toxins, heal from daily stresses, and recharge. 

Getting the recommended eight hours of sleep every night is nearly impossible for the average American today.  But how do we fall asleep when we have gotten to that precious time put aside for sleep?  There can be many causes for insomnia:  stress, tension, worry, overeating and eating before retiring to bed to name a few.  There are those who do sleep more soundly on a full stomach; but if you’ve noticed that you have a harder time dozing off after a big meal, try sleeping at least 1 1/2 hours after eating.  For myself, eating a lighter meal for dinner helps me to fall asleep faster, and feel refreshed the next morning.  Herbs that may be effective in producing sleep are catnip, skullcap, and hops.  I have found valerian to work wonders for me a few years ago when I had a bout of insomnia.  Valerian is an anti-spasmodic which studies have shown to help with muscle aches.  Today I use it if I’m having trouble sleeping through my partner’s snoring. 

L-Theanine is a neurologically active amino acid found in green tea that research has proven to be a mood and focus enhancer.  L-Theanine should not cause drowsiness and so is also taken during the day at stressful times.  At night it may allow the body to relax and concentrate on sleep.  Ashwaganda is an ayurvedic herb that has similar effects.  Ashwaganda is not an anti-spasmodic like valerian, but psycho-physically calms the body.  For use with insomnia it should help prevent the mind from running, and focus in on sleep. 

It is very possible for the body to run smoothly on just about any amount of sleep.  Stress is an infamous quality that prevents optimum health.  Holistic health means living through the connections between the body, mind, and spirit.  When you lay down to sleep, instead of stressing on how much little sleep you are about to receive; breathe deeply, close your eyes and set your mind for a refreshing night’s sleep.  It is important to start the new day in a good mood.  Spend a few minutes laying in bed after you’re awake in the morning.  This may help your body to adjust gradually from the warm, cleansing sleep, to a cooler, energized start.

Taking B vitamin complex supplements may help to improve mood, mental clarity, and energy.  Studies have shown that people who are suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome have low levels of B vitamins compared to those who do not suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome.  B12 is especially known as an energy enhancer.  Spirulina contains an abundance of vitamin B12, protein, and active enzymes.  A good green drink in the early part of the day is beneficial for boosting energy levels, strength, endurance and overall well-being.  Green super food drinks containing a blend of vegetables and herbs rich in antioxidants which promote vitality, cleanse the body of toxins, detoxify free radicals such as heavy metals and pesticides, strengthen brain function, support the immune system and promote longevity and health.

Our thyroid gland governs our metabolism, providing vital energy resources.  Hypothyroidism affects millions of people today, most of them are women.  Some signs of thyroid malfunction include depression, obesity, bloating and lethargy or fatigue in the morning.  The thyroid needs iodine to produce its hormone.  Kelp contains a good amount of easily digestible iodine.  Evening primrose oil can also be a good supplement for women to combat fatigue.  Studies have shown evening primrose oil to produce promising results for chronic fatigue sufferers.

Quick fixes like caffeine and sugar are hazardous to our health.  Overuse of caffeine and sugars raises the blood sugar.  When attempting to rectify the excess sugar, insulin may remove too much sugar causing low-blood sugar reactions and more fatigue.  Caffeine wipes out the adrenals, leading to low energy.  Ginseng is a natural energizer for both sexes.  Royal jelly and bee-pollen are also well known for their energizing effects.  Green tea is popular today for its energy enhancing properties, it speeds metabolism, provides antioxidants, and promotes healing.  As mentioned before, green tea contains L-theanine which reduces stress.  Ginkgo biloba is used mostly for brain stamina.  It improves circulation throughout the body and sends more blood and oxygen to the brain for better memory and alertness.  Rhodiola rosea increases energy at the cells.  This surge at the cellular level helps us manage stress with great ease, protects against disease and neutralizes environmental toxins.  A growing body of evidence shows that Rhodiola rosea may significantly improve physical and mental function.

There are many safe answers to questions concerning energy and restlessness.  We may not be able to get a full eight hours, or live a dreamy, no-stress life, but by connecting our whole being (body, mind and spirit), and living interdependently with nature, we can still be healthy.  We may be able to reap the benefits of hard work without compromising our health.  Please consult a reliable health-care provider, who knows your specific constitution, before embarking on a herbal regimen as to ensure results.