Stress is often the number one culprit for a poor night’s sleep. When times are tough, how can we ensure we get that all-important night’s sleep?
Firstly, tuning into our breath is an excellent way to calm the nervous system. Start with three deep belly breaths: put your hand on your belly and feel it rise as you breathe in, count to four, then slowly breath out to the count of six. This is a great bedtime routine for you and the whole family.
Another tip is to clear your mind before bed by writing down all your thoughts, to-do lists and worries on to paper.
theThis method gets them out of your head and allows the busy mind to rest.
If you feel like you’ve got your evening routine dialled in, but you’re needing more support getting to sleep or staying asleep, then Good Health has got you and your family covered. Stress support for a good night’s sleep starts in the morning.
When we have a good night’s sleep, our body is repaired, recovered, and rejuvenated to cope with whatever the next day throws at us, so then you can do more of what you love.
Take Good Health B Stress Free with breakfast to support your stress response during the day so you can do more of what you love, with B vitamins and calming herbs, passionflower, lemon balm, and licorice.
GOOD HEALTH
B Stress Free
30s now $20.64 was $25.80
60s now $36.40 was $45.50
Good Health Magnesium Sleep
Cream is great for the whole family. Its soothing ingredients, including lavender and chamomile essential oils, as well as magnesium, support a restful night's sleep. You can create a relaxing bedtime routine for yourself and your kids by using Magnesium Sleep Cream for a gentle massage.
GOOD HEALTH
Magnesium Sleep Cream
90g now $31.60 was $39.50
When it comes to bedtime, Good Health Magnesium Sleep Support will support a restful night’s sleep due to the fast-absorbing magnesium and calming herbs california poppy, ashwagandha, and passionflower.
GOOD HEALTH
Magnesium Sleep Support
60s now $22.32 was $27.90
Kia ora New Zealand. Our April issue is all about supporting sleep and overwhelm. For some of us in the North Island who have faced unprecedented weather events, it's been an extremely tense time. From preparation to recovery and clean-up, words cannot really describe the challenges we are facing.
I know Kiwis rally together in times of need, and we're thankful for all the community and emergency services, as well as roading contractors, who worked tirelessly to clear debris and make things safe in all affected areas. Also, to all the unsung heroes who checked on neighbors, shared resources, or even kept community spirits up.
The good news is that there are many natural products that can offer support in times of extreme stress or restless nights.
I'm a fan of using aromatherapy to relax, and I have a diffuser going on my desk during the day. At night, I'll sprinkle my favorite essential oil blend on my pillow.
Pop online to check out our Wellness Hub, where you can read lots of helpful articles and check out our specials and new gift ideas.
Because we know you love shopping both online and in our stores, we've improved our click 'n collect experience. This means you can now choose the store from which you'd like to collect your purchase.
We love feedback, so let us know what you think! Send it to: marketing@health2000.co.nz
Dolphin Clinic has some amazing new passive diffusers that don't need heat or electricity to work. I also have my eye on The Herb Farm Mood Mists - see both on page 4. With low sunshine hours during the autumn season, you can top up on vitamin D3 with GO Healthy (see page 9), which also has you covered with zinc and vitamin C. Pop into your local Health 2000 store (see page 15) for friendly advice and remember to take the time to carve out a moment of calm for yourself when it's all a bit too much.
Ngā Mihi, C.J Milburn - Editor
Are you one of the thousands of New Zealanders who can’t get a good night’s sleep? A lack of sleep is more than just feeling tired. It can adversely affect your health, mental performance and even your safety.
Sleep plays a role in many functions in the body. During sleep your body produces proteins called cytokines that have immune-boosting effects and serve as fuel for your white blood cells. Lack of sleep decreases the production of cytokines and makes you more susceptible to bacteria and viruses.
The use of essential oils to support sleep is scientifically proven. Aromatherapy has an immediate impact on our sense of smell. When essential oils are inhaled, olfactory receptor cells in the nose are stimulated and the impulse is
transmitted to the emotional centre of the brain, or "limbic system". This system is connected to areas of the brain linked to memory, breathing, blood circulation, as well as the endocrine glands which regulate hormone levels in the body and importantly your stress/relaxation response.
Dolphin Clinic Tranquil Sleep Pure Essential Oil Blend was developed by a qualified aromatherapist over 30 years ago and is still one of the most popular blends today – because it will often support you fall asleep sooner for a quality sleep.
Dolphin Clinic now have beautiful Passive Diffusers that are hand-poured flowers and an Aroma Tag made from eco-friendly jesmonite. They are unsealed, so allow the essential oils to absorb and gently scent the air without using any heat or electricity.
Just apply 3-5 drops of your favourite essential oil to any one of these three Passive Diffusers and enjoy the therapeutic and aromatic benefits.
DOLPHIN CLINIC
Tranquil Sleep Essential Blend 10ml
Passive Diffuser - Aroma Tag Passive Diffuser – Daisy Flower
Passive Diffuser – Peony Flower Buy any 2 selected products and Save 25%
Zinc is an essential mineral that has numerous benefits to our health. It is known to support stress, sleep quality and overall wellbeing. As such, it has become increasingly popular as people seek out natural ways to support their mental and physical wellbeing.
Rest&Quiet is a range of natural, original potency Bach flowers, formulated to calm your mind. Traditionally used in Bach flower remedies, the Calm Formula relieves symptoms of stress and mild overwhelm. Whether you’re a busy mum, a stressed bride or in a stressful moment, like moving house or preparing for a public speech, set yourself up with the support of Rest&Quiet.
REST&QUIET
Rest&Quiet Natural Soy Wax Candle (orange blossom) 50g, worth $27.90, when you buy any Rest&Quiet Oral Spray 25ml* for $29.80
Did you know zinc plays a crucial role in the regulation of important hormones like cortisol? High cortisol levels can contribute to low moods. So adding a little zinc to your diet or supplement routine could help support lifting your spirits!
Holland & Barrett Zinc 15mg is an easily absorbed form of zinc, which supports the normal function of the immune system. The high-strength formula means you only need to take one tablet a day to get your recommended daily allowance of zinc. These tablets are also suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Cortisol plays a key role in regulating your metabolism, immune system and stress response. It’s the hormone produced by your adrenal gland that wakes you up in the morning and gets you going for the day. But too much cortisol can play havoc with your mood and mental health, especially if you’re feeling stressed.
Cortisol affects the release of neurotransmitters, the chemicals that regulate mood, such as serotonin and dopamine. Too much cortisol interferes with the normal balance of these neurotransmitters, which can lead to feeling irritable, nervous and generally overwhelmed.
Being a key player in regulating the sleep/wake cycle, excessive cortisol can also interfere with sleep. Cortisol levels are naturally highest in the morning and lowest at night. When cortisol levels are constantly high, it can interfere with normal sleep patterns such as falling asleep, staying asleep, and feeling rested in the morning.
The good news is that there are some simple lifestyle hacks to help lower cortisol levels:
• Get regular exercise because it reduces levels of stress hormones and stimulates production of endorphins (the feel good hormone!)
Prioritise your sleep because sleep deprivation can cause the body to release more cortisol during the day
• Try activities that promote calm like yoga, meditation or deep breathing
• Take saffron and ashwagandha, both scientifically researched to support a calm mood and healthy cortisol levels.
SAVE 20%
Harker Herbals Stress Relief contains both saffron and ashwagandha in doses scientifically researched to support a brighter mood. It’s a high-strength formula that can be taken long-term and is easy to take straight from a spoon or stirred into a favourite drink.
Excessive screen time can take a toll on your eyes, energy, and focus. Blackmores Vision Care + Energy is a unique formula designed to support eye strain while supporting your energy levels.
Using key ingredients lutein and zeaxanthin which work to provide support for your eye strain, support eye macula health and healthy vision, plus help support the filtering of blue light. Also Vitamin B to support your energy levels and mental function.
BLACKMORES
Vision Care + Energy 30s now $33.59 was $41.99
Have ave you ever wondered why you're so tired all the time? You may be intrigued to know that one of the most common symptoms of constant stress is fatigue. Here are some simple ways to refill your energy tank:
1. Find time to be mindful each day
Just a couple of minutes each day engaging in a mindfulness practice like meditation, journaling or deepbelly breathing can help us to switch off and destress.
2. Get your groove on
Movement is like a mini-vacation from everyday stressors - it's free and you can do it anytime, anywhere. Walk, dance, gym, garden - do what sets your soul alight, mutes your worries, and uplifts you.
Research shows that a lack of quality sleep leaves us more likely to feel mentally foggy, stressed, and on edge. Focus on optimising your wind-down routine to help you get your 7-8 hours of nightly shut-eye. Try candlelit evenings, scheduled bedtimes and/or sleeping in a cool, dark room. And although it might be hard to kick the habit, avoiding screens 2 hours before bedtime will help you fall asleep more easily.
If you are feeling tired, stressed and all the rest, B vitamins can help. These essential nutrients support every single cell in our body and play a key role in energy production and stress resilience.
BePure B-Vit Energy Restore is packed with a full spectrum of powerful B vitamins, selenium & iodine for thyroid function and a potent dose of L-theanine to support mental clarity, boundless energy and inner resilience. SAVE 15%
B-Vit Energy Restore now $33.15 was $39.00 now $50.15 was $59.00
Sleep Science has a different approach to good sleep with ETASTM - an asparagus extract that supports our daily stress levels. This is uniquely combined with magnesium for healthy sleep patterns and muscle relaxation and zizyphus, a herb for those who wake overheated. Great for a sound night's sleep. CLINICIANS
Sleep Science 30s now $29.99 was $36.99
Whenwe are put under mental, physical or emotional stress our body will communicate the effects to us through several symptoms: lack of sleep, worry, feeling overwhelmed, blood pressure and blood sugars changes and changes to beneficial gut flora. Hence, reducing our resilience, wreaking havoc on our body and mind! If we don’t take action, it can feel as if something will break!
Coping skills vary. Many people turn to dietary supplements that can be one of several supportive adjuncts to help soothe those rough times.
Long-term strain can play havoc with your focus and sleep patterns and for those who are feeling ‘wired’, a suggestion is L-Theanine. This is a-not-so common amino acid that supports a sense of ease and focus. Found in small quantities in green tea and some mushrooms and is structurally similar to glutamate, a naturally occurring amino acid, which supports alpha waves in the brain that is associated with relaxation and focus.
Feeling overwhelmed or easily agitated is common when dealing with emotional strain. Many mood disorders can be related to stress and linked with low serotonin. Serotonin is vital for normal digestive functions, appetite management, and natural sleep hormone production, which is important for healthy sleep patterns.
Using 5-HTP or St John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) may be an excellent way to support serotonin levels during times of strain. The critical differences between St John’s wort and 5-HTP is that 5-HTP is considered a precursor to serotonin. St John’s Wort works similarly to 5-HTP, but is more broad-spectrum in its action, supporting the circulation of several brain chemicals.
Herbalists have been using adaptogens for thousands of years to supporting the rebalancing and restoration of the body and mind during times of increased pressure.
To support worry, fatigue and wellbeing; this group of herbs has become increasingly popular to support those with burnout or adrenal fatigue. Two of the most popular adaptogens are ashwagandha (withania somnifera) and rhodiola (rhodiola rosea). They both have their similarities properties but also individual unique qualities.
Often ashwagandha is considered more soothing, while those who are looking to support increased stamina and energy may find rhodiola a better option. When choosing between the two herbs, it is a good idea to know if you are looking to support energy or support rest. Some people like to combine the two herbs and get both benefits, while others will use one bottle of ashwagandha and then change to rhodiola.
Remember, supplements can be one or a number of supportive adjunctive tools when it necessary to help to reclaim your sense of rebalance.
Radiance Instant Calm formulated with ashwagandha, kava and lemonbalm to support you during times of stress. It soothes nervous feelings and supports mental focus. 8 sprays under the tongue can support feelings of calm and focus without fatigue or sleepiness, so you can face any situation with strength and clarity. SAVE 10%
RADIANCE
Ashwagandha Instant Calm Spray 30ml now $34.19 was $37.99
Studies have shown that vitamin D is necessary for healthy functioning of the immune system, as well as supporting natural immune defences, and is essential for everyday health and wellbeing.
During the winter months, vitamin D deficiency is a common issue due to limited exposure to sunlight.
However, in New Zealand's summer months, people often cover up, use sunblock, and avoid the sun during the middle of the day, which may prevent the restoration of vitamin D levels. As a result, taking a vitamin D supplement may be a wise consideration.
Adequate levels of vitamin D, as well as zinc and vitamin C are crucially essential for a healthy immune system.
GO Healthy has formulated a great all year-round immune support product by combining vitamin D with essential immune nutrients vitamin C and zinc.
• Triple action immune support formula
• With 500mg vitamin C
• Supports all year round immune health
• Each capsule provides maximum daily dose of vitamin D and zinc allowed in New Zealand dietary supplements.
New Era No.8 provides valuable support to help calm and soothe stressed muscles and nerves. This powerful mineral is rapidly absorbed by the body so you can have a more comfortable, restful sleep
Spending time with people you care about can be a great way to reduce stress. Whether you call a friend, spend time with family, or even cuddle with a pet, connecting with others can help you feel more supported and less isolated.
Engaging in a creative activity, such as painting, writing, or playing music can be a great way to unwind and reduce stress. When you are creating something, you are fully engaged in the present moment and less focused on worries or negative thoughts.
Walking is an easy and accessible form of exercise that can be done anywhere, at any time. You don't need any special equipment or a gym membership to enjoy the benefits of walking. Walking with friends or family can be a great way to connect with others and build relationships, which can also help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.
HealthZone Stress Zone is also fortified with vitamin B, which can provide even more support for your body during periods of stress. So, if you're looking for a way to support your adrenal gland function and deal with stress, this high potency formula could be just what you need.
Stress Zone
100s now $39.99 was $49.99
200s now $67.99 was $84.99
Thompson's Ashwagandha Complex Stress + Focus is formulated with an herbal blend of ashwagandha and bacopa to help the body adapt to stress and to help support brain performance, mental clarity, and focus.
Ashwagandha Complex Stress + Sleep contains a combination of the traditionally used herbs ashwagandha, passionflower and lavender to help during times of nervous tension to support sleep maintenance.
THOMPSON'S
Ashwagandha Complex Stress+Focus & Ashwagandha ComplexStress+Sleep
60s now $28.25 each were $31.49 each
Most parents don’t know that teens need a minimum of 8-10 hours of sleep to grow a healthy brain and body, to learn, meet their potential and to protect them from harm. It is estimated that at least 50 percent of teenagers are very sleep deprived. If you are like many parents, you may have no idea how much sleep your teen is really getting and the negative effect lack of sleep is having on their life.
Sleep deprivation will impact many aspects of a teenager’s functioning:
• Behaviour: Teenagers who are sleep deprived are more likely to engage in risk-taking behaviours, such as drinking, drug-taking, smoking, driving fast or unhealthy sexual activity.
• Cognitive ability: Lack of sleep results in problems with attention, memory, decision making, reaction time, and creativity, all of which impacts on performance. Studies show that teenagers who get less sleep have worse school results, fall asleep in school, and have more school absences.
• Mood: Sleep deprivation leads to a moody, irritable, and cranky teen who has difficulty regulating their emotions. e.g., getting easy frustrated, angry or upset which may lead to problems with family, friends and relationships.
• Mental health problems: Tired teens lack resiliency and are more susceptible to mental health illnesses such as anxiety, depression and self harm.
• Poor diet: Lack of sleep can lead to overeating, eating unhealthy foods and relying on high calorie, caffeinated energy drinks resulting in fatigue, poor skin, immune health, and inability to maintain a healthy weight.
Understanding their different sleep needs will give you the confidence to start a dialogue with them. Teens can have trouble getting enough sleeping due to a number of reasons such as:
• Delayed sleep Schedules: After puberty, some teenager’s internal clocks can shift by up to 2 hours, meaning some teenagers may not be able to go to sleep until later in the night and as a result will prefer to wake up later in the morning. Help them develop a healthy wind down routine and remove them from devices 1 hour before sleep time and if they are not getting the minimum of 8 hours a night during the week, work to change that rather than letting them
“catch up on sleep” over the weekend. A regular sleep/wake circadian rhythm positively impacts the other body clocks in the body such as digestion and hormones.
• Social, work and school commitments: Teenagers who try to juggle social, work, and school commitments often end up working night shifts, completing homework, doing community work, or socialising late into the night. Therefore, it is important to analyse all their activities and assess whether they really need to do athletics in the evening and wake up at 5am to go rowing.
“My son found TeenSleep helpful to settle him down for the night. His bad habits of staying up too late were taking a toll on him. With exams approaching he was in need these and they have made a huge difference for him” – Julie
• Sleep isn’t a priority: Sleep often takes a backseat as teens will prioritise their social life, gaming, work or other activities over important shut-eye. It is important to help them to understand the role sleep plays in keeping them safe, healthy, having fun and achieving their dreams.
Research shows teenagers benefit from specific nutrients to support them to sleep better, feel less stressed, build resiliency and cope with the pressure of teen life. With this in mind, SleepDrops has specifically formulated TeenSleep & Stress for 9-19 year olds.
Electrolytes are minerals responsible for directing water to the areas in your body that need it most. They also support optimal fluid balance within cells, balanced blood acidity and blood pressure, while aiding the rebuild of damaged tissues.
When you sweat, it is electrolytes that do the vital job of keeping proper water balance inside and outside your cells. This helps you stay properly hydrated and ensures your body can function well.
Athletes who train regularly, those who exercise in hot temperatures or at heated fitness classes (like hot yoga, hot barre, or hot boot camp), and those who live in humid climates are all susceptible to electrolyte depletion.
For peak performance, your body attempts to remain at 37 degrees celsius during exercise. It does this by sweating, and you can lose up to a litre of fluid per hour when you work out. It’s important to replace your fluids frequently or you’ll be at risk of dehydrating, your temperature and heart rate will increase, and you’ll begin to feel fatigued.
Drinking water alone is insufficient, because when you sweat, you lose sodium as well - the key electrolyte for fluid balance and hydration. When sodium levels in your blood are diluted and they become too low, it leads to hyponatremia, causing symptoms that affect performance including lethargy, confusion, and exhaustion.
Select electrolytes with a nutritional panel that is well balanced in key minerals - sodium, potassium, magnesium and calcium - for optimal hydration.
15 MIN + 2-3HRS TO SET SERVES 4
Frozen Yogurt bark is so much fun for the kids to make! It's yummy and the best part is its loaded with goodies. The topping combinations are endless. This is the perfect healthy treat!
Ingredients:
• 200g plain coconut yoghurt
• 1 serve Kids Good Stuff Wild
Strawberry
• 1 tsp raspberry powder
1 tsp dragon fruit powder
• toasted coconut chips
freeze dried raspberries/strawberries
• gluten-free shortbread cookies marshmallows
Musashi Electrolytes is a unique, low-sugar formulation containing a blend of minerals lost in sweat during sports or exercise. With added glutamine, this refreshingly-delicious blend is scientifically formulated to support your sports nutrition needs.
SAVE 10%
MUSASHI
Electrolytes (Watermelon and Blue Raspberry flavours) 300g now $22.49 was $24.99
Method: 1) Mix the Kids Good Stuff and the coconut yoghurt until well combined. 2) Add the raspberry and the dragon fruit powder and mix well again. 3) Place the glad wrap or baking paper on a baking tray, then spread the yoghurt and Kids Good Stuff mixture over the surface (not too thin). 4) Add the toppings and pat them into the yoghurt mixture so that they set well. Place in the freezer for 2-3 hours or overnight. 5) Once it's frozen and you are ready to enjoy the Frozen Yoghurt Bark, remove it from the freezer and break it into small pieces. Serve straight away and enjoy!
NUZEST Kids Good Stuff (all flavours) 225g for $45.00
Achieving a better night's sleep is at the top of many people’s minds. Many outside influences can affect our ability to not only fall asleep but also to stay asleep. Increasing the level of magnesium can be an effective way to support a restful night’s sleep.
Amazing Oils Sleep Lotion is a product designed to support individuals achieve a better night's sleep. Made using only natural ingredients, including magnesium chloride, lavender oil, chamomile, and bergamot. These ingredients may support relaxation and reduce stress, making it easier for individuals to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.
One of the key ingredients in Amazing Oils Sleep Lotion is magnesium chloride. This mineral is essential for body functioning, and it has been shown to help support relaxation and reduce stress. When applied topically, magnesium can be absorbed into the skin.
The other ingredients in the Amazing Oils Sleep Lotion,
Sukin’s Aromatherapy Bath Blends are enriched with natural ingredients, like lemon myrtle, peppermint and lavender, along with enriched oils for softer skin. Reinvigorate your body with Sukin’s Energise Aromatherapy Bath Blend. Or, if it’s time for bed, calm your thoughts and ease into slumber with Sleep Aromatherapy Bath Blend.
SUKIN
Free Revitalising Facial Scrub 50ml (worth $6.70) when you buy a Aromatherapy Bath Blend Recovery, Energise & Sleep 500ml for $17.99
such as lavender oil, chamomile, and bergamot, are known for their calming and soothing effects. Lavender oil is often used in aromatherapy to support relaxation and sleep quality. Chamomile has been shown to have a similar impact, and bergamot is known for its ability to reduce worry and promote a sense of well-being.
Using the Amazing Oils Sleep Lotion is easy. Apply the lotion to your skin before bedtime, focusing on areas such as your back, shoulders, and the tops of your feet. The lotion will absorb quickly, and you can go to bed feeling relaxed and calm. Over time, using the lotion regularly may help support your sleep quality, allowing you to wake up refreshed and energised.
Itis well-known that vitamin D3 plays a vital role in human health, but many do not realise how beneficial it can be to our sleep and overall stress levels.
Vitamin D3 is essential for the absorption of calcium and it also plays a role in supporting gene regulation, bone formation, and heart health. But did you know in recent years, scientists have discovered that vitamin D3 can also support sleep and reduce stress levels?
Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland which supports feelings of sleepiness.
By supporting the production of melatonin, vitamin D3 supports the body to fall asleep quickly and stay naturally asleep for longer. It is important to note that deficiency in vitamin D3 can lead to a lack of melatonin and make sleeping much more difficult.
Stay ahead of less sunlight hours and keep your body supported with Lighthouse Vitamin D3. This essential nutrient helps strengthen bones, supports metabolism, and the immune system. Get the reliable support you need to be at your best with Lighthouse Vitamin D3.
Ethical Nutrients Mega Magnesium Night has been meticulously crafted to help support you as you unwind at the end of a long day and calm your mind when it is racing. It supports muscles when they feel tense, so you can wind down both physically and mentally.
It’s been formulated for consumption as part of your night-time routine, to help you prepare for sleep. Because it supports both your body and mind, you can wake refreshed, ready to tackle your day head-on.
ETHICAL NUTRIENTS Mega Magnesium Night 50s & 126g now $39.52 was $49.40 272g now $76.16 was $95.20
LIGHTHOUSE
Vitamin D3 1000IU 120s now $21.99 was $31.99
The first way vitamin D3 can help support sleep, is by helping the body create melatonin.
