We all know how important sleep is, but many of us don’t realize just how powerful it is when it comes to physical recovery after an accident or injury. Sleep is a natural healer and it can be a powerful tool for those who suffer from physical injuries and chronic pain.
Relax - Restore - Repair
Sleep is vital to the healing process following an accident or injury because it promotes a restorative state of relaxation. It gives the body time to relax, restore and renew. It is during the deep stages of sleep, our bodies also release endorphins which relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and speed up healing.
Restful sleep can help to restore your energy levels, which essential to expedite the recovery process, repair cognitive functions and release hormones that produce a sense of calm, reduce stress levels and improve mental clarity. Good sleep can help us st ay focused, reduce confusion and improve the ability to process information. Furthermore, it can help to reduce the risk of depression and anxiety and improve overall mood.
The Magic
During sleep, the body has the opportunity to repair and restore itself through the release of hormones and increased circulation of oxygen to aid in the healing of wounds.
Scientific fact: During sleep, the body releases two main hormones that help with the repair of damaged tissue: growth hormone and testosterone. Growth hormone helps the body repair and regenerate tissue, bone, muscle, and skin. It also helps strengthen bones, boost muscle mass, and decrease body fat. Testosterone helps to increase muscle mass and strength, promote bone growth, and boost the production of red blood cells. At the same time, the body produces other hormones like cortisol and melatonin. Cortisol works to reduce stress, while melatonin is released to help regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle.
Your body instinctively knows what it needs to thrive, and will repair itself if you give it the right tools. With the right amount of rest, you can expect to recover faster and return to your normal life. While the power of sleep cannot replace professional help, it can be an important part of the healing process.
You and your body will both benefit from a good night's rest,
and there's no better time than now
to make it happen.
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