September is a time of change – with the seasons changing comes later sunrises and colder days – but it is also a time to contemplate your relationship with rest. At such a transitional time, improving your sleep habits might seem like the last thing on your mind, but as the saying goes ‘you can’t pour from an empty cup’.
This article explores easy ways that you can get a more restful night’s sleep this Sleeptember – and how NAD+ can support your sleep habits during this month and beyond.
The Importance of Sleep Hygiene
Sleep hygiene, a practice developed in the late 1970s to support those with sleep disorders, follows the idea that your environment and bedtime routine impact the quality of your sleep. By creating a ‘sleep sanctuary’ where you can relax, coupled with a consistent routine, your chances of regularly waking up refreshed improve exponentially.
How to Create a ‘Sleep Sanctuary’
September is the ideal time to start working on your sleep sanctuary: as the nights draw in it is natural to want to get cosy and make your space feel more comfortable to relax in. The key factors to think about when re-evaluating your sleep space are:
- Light
- Clutter
- Electronic devices
Bright lights as you are going to bed can cause fragmented sleep, leaving you waking up less rested than you should. You should be able to block out all light in your sleep space, or wear an eye mask for maximum relaxation.
Having a cluttered space affects your mood during the day, making daily tasks more time consuming and sometimes even frustrating. It can also do the same at night, leaving you falling asleep distracted and overstimulated. By making your bedroom be completely focused on sleep, you can shut the door on your stress and have the best chance at a restful night.
It is well known that you should avoid using mobile devices before bed. Much like lights and clutter, they overstimulate the brain. So, when you are trying to switch off for the evening, try switching off the phone as well. Activities like reading are a good alternative to screen time and are proven to actively reduce stress.
Forming a Sleep-Supporting Routine
Our bodies thrive on predictability and sleep is no exception. When we establish a regular sleep routine, we signal to our biological clock, known as the circadian rhythm, that it’s time to prepare for rest. This helps regulate the release of sleep-promoting hormones like melatonin, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up feeling refreshed.
Start your journey to a better night’s sleep by creating an approachable before bed routine. Make time to pamper yourself and take care of yourself, even if it is just for a few minutes; make time to talk to a loved one or your partner to give closure to the events of the day. These small acts of self care are attainable, helping to create a routine that becomes part of your lifestyle in the long term.
Furthermore, the time after you wake up is just as important as bedtime. Consider finding a gentler, more gradual alarm sound and making time for affirmations or stretches. However, again, it is important to create a routine that works for your schedule – worrying about not sticking to your goals is counterintuitive!
How can NAD+ deficiency affect your sleep?
NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) and your sleep patterns are closely intertwined. The NAD+ coenzyme is both controlled by and regulates the circadian rhythm – the aforementioned internal body clock.
A NAD+ deficiency, therefore, affects your ability to have that vital sleep routine and could increase the potential of developing a sleep disorder. As NAD+ levels lower with age, when sleep is more vital than ever, this can lead to chronic fatigue that leaves you frustrated and not able to live your life to the fullest.
How NADclinic can help
NADclinic offers a range of IV infusions and supplements of the most powerful form of this miracle molecule to support you in your journey to better sleep:
- Anti-Fatigue IV Infusion: A proprietary blend of NAD+ and sleep-supporting vitamins to give you the best chance at achieving a restful night’s sleep.
- Signature Detox IV Infusion: Feeling your best is an important part of resting well. This detoxifying therapy helps you get your body back on track.
- High-Dose Vitamin C IV Programme: A high-dose set of infusions of NAD+ and vitamin C to kickstart your energy levels.
We also provide a range of high-quality supplements for sleep-support for on the go and in between infusions. These supplements mean NAD+ can become a part of your routine wherever you are.
If you’re looking to transform your relationship with sleep and rest, contact NADclinic or browse our range of sleep-supporting IV infusions today.