The Beauty of Slumber
Slipping into a new season provides a great opportunity to change rhythms. If your summer was dreamy and loose, transitioning to fall might mean a return to structure—and to good sleeping habits, one of the most fundamental paths to healing body, mind, spirit and skin.
We all know the telltale signs of a sleepless night—the dark circles and the dullness—but new scientific studies show that sleep deprivation effects every aspect of wellness, from cardiac health to brain function.
Of course, sleep loss also increases signs of aging—the fine lines, uneven tone and reduced elasticity. When we sleep, our cells work to undo the environmental damage of the day, making deep repairs at the foundation, and making sleep radically important for the skin. During sleep, collagen destroying cortisol levels are at their lowest, while growth hormones prolactin and melatonin, as well as anti-inflammatory beta-endorphins, are at their highest.
At the same time, skin is at its most vulnerable at night, with its ability to retain moisture greatly decreased, making a carefully chosen night cream essential. During this prime-healing span, when absorption is also optimal, skin needs rich nutrients, as well as protection against further moisture loss.
But while there are a handful of incredible formulas available to support health and healing, nothing can replicate the benefits of a solid eight hours of rest—yes, eight! Nothing beats sleep. I like to begin my evening ritual by cleansing my skin, reflecting on my day, gearing down with gentle intent. Another useful suggestion made by sleep experts is to turn off electronic devices a full 90 minutes before going to bed, switching over to reading instead. Another is keeping a consistent bedtime.
If you think of it, constantly altering your bedtime or waking time is like being continually jet-lagged. If you put your heart into it and commit to a new sleeping plan—even just for a month—I think you’ll agree that the body simply loves this so-simple luxury. Down time is actually our primetime, re-balancing everything you need to meet each day with the full force of your spirit. Sleep tight!
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