The adrenal glands are located on top of the kidneys and play a critical role in the production of a multitude of hormones in your body. The adrenals comprise the endocrine system and are responsible for activating your stress response and regulating adrenaline and cortisol, which aid in energy and sleep. They also have a part in the reproductive process.
Imbalance of the adrenal system is problematic to health and ranges from mild disorders, such as adrenal fatigue, to more serious conditions such as Addison's disease. Too much or too little adrenal hormone production results in various symptoms including fatigue, weakness and digestive disturbance.
If you do suspect you have adrenal fatigue, please see your medical health professional and/or there are functional hormonal tests you can do with a natural health practitioner such as myself.
There are simple ways to begin working on restoring your adrenal health, even if you don’t have adrenal fatigue but are dealing with stress and overwhelm in your life. Here are six of my faves to practice:
1. Take small breaks and get on a sleep schedule. In the event of fatigue during the daytime, try to schedule small breaks to rest your mind and body
2. Take a 15 to 20 minute power nap or simply lie down for a few minutes and rest your mind. Relaxation in addition to getting a full night of sleep recharges your body and helps to level out cortisol, which is altered in adrenal disorders. Try to go to bed at the same time each night and get at least eight hours of uninterrupted sleep.
3. Exercise daily, engaging in light exercise such as walking, jogging or riding a bike. Yoga is great for nourishing the nervous system at the same time as moving your body!
4. Connect with others, including pets. Did you know that calling a friend or family member has been shown to restore adrenal health? Taking time to connect with others (even someone you don’t know)—or an animal can help give your body the signals it needs to relax.
5. Enjoy nature! Whether you choose to spend time outdoors or simply look at pictures of trees, leaves, mountains, and flowers, either way you’ll be helping your body restore adrenal health.
6. Be strategic with your day and your life. Think about your values and goals, and then outline, based on what is most important to you, what it is that you want to get done. Be realistic about what you can accomplish in one day, and create a list of tasks that you’d like to work on. This approach can help you stay on track, be less stressed, and be flexible with yourself.
As mentioned, if you need support around adrenal health, please make an appointment with me - There is so much we can do naturally, through diet and lifestyle as well as herbs, to move you to wellness.