Our mind and body are deeply interconnected. Sleep plays a critical role in maintaining the connections between our neurological and musculoskeletal systems that influence our overall health and wellbeing.
Rest, in its many forms, is often seen as a luxury or an afterthought in our fast-paced society. However, it’s a critical component of our health and well-being and therefore needs to be prioritised.
Rest isn’t merely the absence of work; it’s an active state where healing, rejuvenation, and growth occur. Drawing insights from Alex Soojung-Kim Pang’s book, “Rest: Why You Get More Done When You Work Less,” let’s discover why rest is so important for our mind and body.
Neurological Benefits of Rest
Brain plasticity and healing: During rest, our brain engages in processes like synaptic pruning and neural growth, essential for learning, memory, and cognitive function. The brain also drains toxins during sleep which is essential for function and health.
Stress reduction: Rest helps in reducing cortisol levels, a stress hormone that, when chronically elevated, can lead to numerous health issues including impaired cognitive function and musculoskeletal problems, digestion issues and disease.
Enhanced creativity and problem-solving: As Pang notes, rest can foster creativity, giving our brain the space to make novel connections and insights. A rested mind is a creative mind. Also, life’s no fun when you’re chronically tired!
Physical Benefits of Rest
Muscle repair and growth: Rest periods are crucial for muscle repair and growth. As Chiropractors we see that muscle health is integral to spinal and joint function which leads to improved nerve function back to the spinal cord and the brain.
Reduced inflammation: Chronic inflammation, often exacerbated by lack of rest, can lead to various health issues, including joint pain and decreased mobility. Most chronic illnesses, including some cancers, lead back to chronic inflammation.
Immune system boost: Adequate rest strengthens the immune system, aiding in the prevention of illness, which can impact physical mobility and overall health.
Are you getting enough rest?
Getting adequate rest is not just for our own productivity, but for our overall health and well-being.
Here are some strategies to get more effective rest and rejuvenation:
Quality sleep: 7-9 hours of quality sleep is recommended. To achieve this, figure out what time you need to be in and out of bed and set a schedule around it. Create a cool, dark sleeping environment and limit screen time before bed. Taking magnesium and herbal relaxing tea before bed can help relax your body.
Mindful relaxation practices/routines: Incorporate activities like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or gentle yoga. These practices help in calming the mind and reducing body tension.
Take regular breaks during work: Short, frequent breaks during work hours can prevent mental fatigue and physical strain.
Engage in deep play: Hobbies and activities bring joy and can be a form of rest and rejuvenation, contributing to your mental and physical well-being.
Embrace rest for better health
As brain-based chiropractors, we advocate for a holistic approach to health, recognising the impact of our mental well-being that direct our physical health and well-being.
Remember, rest is not a luxury; it’s a necessity.
Incorporating deliberate rest into our lives will enhance our mental clarity, emotional resilience, and physical health—leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
At The Chiropractic Centre, we help you get your brain into a great state, through brain-based chiropractic care, so that it can adapt and recover from stress. This includes chiropractic adjustments, brain and nervous system scanning and brain training and coaching.
If you’ve been struggling with sleep, call us on 2973 0353 to consult a brain-based Chiropractor who can help you improve your sleep and achieve optimal health naturally.
