About Sleep

The dictionary defines sleep as a suspension of voluntary bodily functions and the natural suspension, complete or partial, of consciousness - a carefully regulated modification of our brain and bodily functions that refreshes us. Actually, sleep is one of three closely interrelated bodily functions regulated by a number of hormones such as melatonin which is produced in the pineal gland and the so-called neuro-transmitters, substances controlling the sleep-wake balance.

Besides sleep these hormones regulate the feeling of hunger and reproduction. A disturbance in any one of these functions will affect the others, a domino effect, so to speak. More and more nowadays, doctors are encountering patients suffering from sleep/wake rhythm disturbances. Shift work, deadlines, jet lag, the changing seasons with extended periods of light or darkness and our “modern way of life” with the Internet, cell phones, TV and a plethora of so-called “leisure” activities filling our days and nights – all these things and more have combined to put us out of phase with our natural 24-hour body clock cycle. The result in many cases is a recurring pattern of sleep disturbances, stress, pain, anxiety, depression and obesity where dependence on strong medication seems to be the only source of relief.