It's undeniable that when we aren't getting proper sleep...it reflects directly onto our skin. Our bodily functions are influenced by our circadian rhythm, the body's 24 hour internal clock which regulates the sleep-wake cycle repeatedly.
Photo by: Henry Mikely
Clinical studies have proven the correlation between skin health and sleep to be extremely related. In 2013, Estée Lauder commissioned a first-of-it's-kind clinical trial which demonstrated poor sleepers had increased signs of skin aging and decreased skin function. The study concluded that in poor sleepers inflammation was less efficiently resolved, trans epidermal water loss was more common(weakening barrier function), and their skin cells repaired 30% slower than those of good quality sleep. Read more about this study and its findings here.
The purpose of this blog post is to remember that "beauty sleep" is so real and important for skin vitality. In the Integrative Model of Skin Health I created, quality of sleep was the first variable I mentioned of lifestyle factors which contribute to skin health. I truly believe that when we are mindful of our sleep patterns we are supporting our skin to be able to best perform its functions.
Here are some of my tips to wind down for bed to best prepare yourself for a night of amazing rest:
Drink a calming herbal tea. Before bed I enjoy either/or combination of hibiscus, chamomile, and peppermint.
Facial Massage. Bringing circulation to the skin is healing and key to a complexion that looks full of life.
Stretch. I enjoy laying down a clean sheet or towel in front of my full length mirror in my bedroom, lights off, and doing a few calming yoga poses. Standing Forward Fold Pose, Child's Pose, Legs Up The Wall Pose, and Reclined Goddess Pose are some poses I enjoy to wind down.
I hope you enjoyed this post and can keep in mind how beneficial quality sleep is for your skin. My intention with my blog is to share information that inspires holistic healing and healthy habits.