If you’re struggling to sleep, stress could be to blame. How do you know if stress is affecting your sleep and how can you calm down for a good night’s rest? Here are 3 signs you’re too stressed to sleep and some simple tips to help you unwind.

1. Your mind is racing

When your body stops but your brain doesn’t, this is a sign of stress. Thoughts that go around and around, lists that pop into your head, and a feeling of being constantly on the go – sound familiar? A racing mind can stop you getting a good night’s sleep.

2. Your aches and pains make it hard to relax

Physical tension, a clenched jaw, headaches and sore shoulders can all be signs of stress, and they can all make it hard for your body to relax into sleep. 

 3. You feel tired but wired

Feel like everything in your body is turned on, even though you’re exhausted? If you can’t turn off, it probably means the stress hormones adrenalin and cortisol are pumping through your body. This keeps you in fight or flight mode rather than the rest mode you need before sleep. Watch out for signs like a quick-beating heart, sweaty palms or being unable to sit or lie still. Your body’s telling you your nervous system is activated and needs some support.

Simple tips and tricks to unwind

Try:

• Mindfulness exercises: even 5 minutes a day can help you become aware of each moment of your day as it happens, which can help reduce stress. Health Navigator New Zealand has some great resources to help you get started.
• Daily gentle physical activity like walking, yoga, or stretching.
• Avoiding caffeine after 11am.
• Checking your posture at work or getting regular massages to help ease your tension.
• A calming bedtime routine with screen-free time, herbal tea, a hot bath, or breathing exercises.

Kiwiherb’s stress and sleep products can help too. Support a stressed nervous system with Kiwiherb StressCare®. Combining the calming herbs Withania and Lemon Balm with essential B vitamins, it helps your body cope with stress and is suitable for daily use.

When you need quick relief from stress, try Kiwiherb StressArrest®. This fast-acting formula combines the traditional relaxant properties of Kava, Passionflower and Withania, providing immediate relief of nervous tension and worry when you need it most. 

To soothe yourself into a good night’s sleep, try Kiwiherb Valerian. Valerian is a gentle relaxing herb, which has been used for centuries to support restful sleep and ease nervous tension. Use it before bed to support a restful night’s sleep.

Even better: all Kiwiherb products contain no artificial flavours, sweeteners or colours and are free from gluten, soy and nuts.  

Always read the label and use as directed. If symptoms persist, see your healthcare professional. Phytomed, Auckland.