Sleep is one of the most essential elements of our overall health and wellbeing, so it's only logical that sleep hacks and hygiene can be a popular topic of interest. Getting good quality sleep is linked to many crucial functions in the body,such as proper memory storage, muscle repair, emotional regulation, and more. WIth its high importance, those who suffer from chronic sleep issues tend to have further medical or mental health concerns. In the last decade or so, the effect that cannabis has on sleep ease and quality has been in the preliminary stages of research due to what we already know about it. For many, the news that cannabis or CBD products may just help you get that extra beauty rest could be a game-changer.
CBD & Cannabis For Sleep
When we think about people who have trouble sleeping, we don't often think about the anxiety and tension that comes with a chronic inability to get good rest. Oftentimes, people who struggle with insomnia or any sort of chronic sleep disruption can develop anxiety surrounding the topic of sleep. Because of this, cannabidiol (CBD) has become an increasingly popular possible sleep aid due to its potential calming effects on those who use it, rather than its sleep benefits. CBD interacts with the nervous system by changing serotonin levels, and therefore, altering mood and providing a more relaxed state. For those who struggle with anxiety or stress, this can be a huge help in falling asleep.
As for the science backing whether or not CBD or cannabis definitively helps to reduce symptoms of chronic sleep disorders or disturbances, research is still in its initial stages. Different strains of cannabis, of course, produce different effects. Some initial study results suggest positive outcomes for CBD and THC used together for sleep specifically, but because the effects are so unique to every person, much more research is needed to conclude whether or not it can be used as a surefire sleep aid. It is always worth noting that some people have different experiences with cannabis where they don't feel calm or relaxed, and this might actually hinder your sleep. WIth trying any new cannabis or CBD products, it can be a process to find the right one for you, so patience can be key in your success. As for the dosage of CBD specifically for sleep, the answer is much the same - it depends on your body weight and chemistry, but you can find rough guidelines here.> Starting slow and building up your dosing if needed is always the best option when trying a new product.
How Can I Improve My Sleep Quality?
In addition to trying out a CBD gummy or calmer strain of cannabis to help you sleep better, there are other small changes you can make to your environment that might help you sleep the best you possibly can. A few elements of sleep hygiene to think on that could make a big difference in falling asleep, staying asleep, and feeling rested are:
- Light: You want to sleep in as dark of a room as possible to keep your circadian rhythm functioning properly.
- Sound: Try to keep your bedroom as quiet as you possibly can.
- Temperature: Research shows that the optimal temperature for sleep is between 60-67 degrees Fahrenheit, so layer on the blankets if you need, but keep your room cool. ƒ√
- Substances: different substances interact with our sleep quality, such as alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine. Understanding how and when you consume them may be helpful in improving your sleep quality.
- Consistency: Keeping a consistent sleep and wake schedule helps your body stay on track and perform better.
- Devices: Blue light, constant scrolling, and anxiety producing shows can all keep your brain “online” when you are trying to sleep. Try shutting off devices 1 hour before bedtime.
Of course, mood and stress management can play a big part in ease of falling asleep and the quality of sleep you have. This is where the CBD experimentation comes in - and furthermore - where we come in!
