Sleep Better This Spring: herbs for better sleep

Sleep is medicine. It restores us mentally and gives our bodies time to physically repair our tissues. An estimated 18 million adults in the US use either prescription or over the counter medications to help them get better sleep. For those who would like to explore other options, a more holistic approach is possible.

If you’re someone who doesn’t get the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep per night, herbs could be your ally. In this one-hour community workshop, we’ll talk about common issues surrounding sleep and DIY herbal preparations to address imbalances.

Plants can relax tense muscle, soothe intrusive thoughts at bedtime, and encourage our nervous system to “rest and digest.” We’ll learn strategies for balancing hormones and circadian cycles to encourage healthy sleep/wake cycles. Participants will be able to taste and try different preparations and will be encouraged to try making their own at home!

This class is offered at a sliding scale $15-25.

Emma O’Brien is a clinically trained Western herbalist, birth worker and Hyde Park resident. She has been working personally and professionally with herbs as medicine for a decade, and has supported over 200 families in their pregnancy, labor and birth process.