Inspired by Sleep and Natural Therapies- Going Beyond Sleep Hygiene by Naturopathy Branch Chair Member Esther Parker from the ANTA Summer Journal, 2024
This blog post is inspired by the insightful piece written by Esther Parker in the 2024 Summer ANTA Journal. Esther’s expertise and nuanced approach to addressing sleep challenges through natural therapies provide invaluable guidance for practitioners looking to deepen their understanding and improve patient outcomes.
As practitioners, we understand the profound impact sleep has on our patients’ health and overall well-being. Insomnia or poor sleep is more than just a nighttime struggle; it ripples through every aspect of life, affecting mood, energy, and the ability to engage in therapeutic protocols effectively. While natural therapies provide an array of tools to address sleep issues, a practitioner’s focus must go beyond sleep hygiene to truly support patients in achieving restorative sleep. In Esthers words “we need to do what we do best; provide personalised care and treat the cause”.
Sleep issues are a widespread concern in Australia. Approximately 48% of adults report experiencing two or more sleep problems, making it difficult for them to meet the recommended 7–9 hours of sleep per night. Adolescents also face significant challenges, with 27% of young teens and 52% of older teens failing to meet sleep guidelines on school nights. These issues contribute to learning difficulties, behavioural concerns, and even poor dietary choices.
Women often present with a variety of health concerns where poor sleep is a hidden, yet significant, contributor. Men, on the other hand, are more likely to identify sleep as a primary issue during consultations. As practitioners, recognising these patterns allows us to tailor our care to each individual’s unique experience with sleep challenges.
One of the most valuable tools we have as practitioners is education. Explaining the science of sleep to patients can alleviate anxiety and provide reassurance. For instance, understanding that deep, restorative sleep occurs predominantly in the early part of the night, while lighter sleep and longer REM cycles dominate the early morning hours, can help patients reframe their experience of waking in the night.
Normalising the fluctuations in sleep stages and cycles can also empower patients to see their sleep patterns with less fear. For example, a patient waking at 3 a.m. can be reassured that they have likely completed the most restorative portion of their sleep. This shift in understanding often reduces anxiety and creates a foundation for further therapeutic work.
Natural therapies offer a wealth of options for addressing sleep challenges. Beyond the commonly used remedies like magnesium, passionflower, valerian, and chamomile, less familiar options such as Pulsatilla (for pain-related sleep issues) and sweet violet syrup (traditionally used for insomnia) can provide tailored solutions. Nutritional interventions, like incorporating tryptophan-rich foods or N-acetylcysteine to support neurotransmitter balance, also play a significant role in addressing the underlying causes of sleep disturbances.
As practitioners, our ability to personalise care—addressing not only the symptoms but also the root causes—is key. Whether it’s stress, pain, or lifestyle factors impacting sleep, our holistic approach ensures that each patient receives the support they need to improve their sleep quality and overall health.
CBTi has emerged as a gold-standard therapy for insomnia and offers long-term benefits by addressing both the behavioural and psychological aspects of sleep challenges. While natural therapies remain our primary focus, integrating CBTi principles can enhance patient outcomes. Core components of CBTi include:
For practitioners not trained in CBTi, partnering with or referring to a qualified CBTi clinician can ensure patients receive the comprehensive care they need.
As members of the Australian Natural Therapists Association, we are uniquely positioned to lead the way in holistic sleep care. By combining our expertise in natural therapies with evidence-based approaches like CBTi, we can provide our patients with the tools and support they need to overcome sleep challenges. Moreover, our role as educators—sharing insights into the science of sleep and the value of personalised care—helps to empower patients to take an active role in their health journey.
Sleep is not just a physical need; it is a cornerstone of health and vitality. Addressing sleep challenges with compassion, knowledge, and tailored interventions can transform our patients’ lives, enabling them to fully engage with the broader therapeutic protocols we provide.
This article draws on insights shared by Naturopathy Branch Chair Member Esther Parker, a masters-qualified Clinical Nutritionist and Naturopath based in Brisbane, QLD. Esther specialises in nutritional, herbal, and lifestyle management for the treatment of sleep and mood disorders.
With nearly 20 years of experience, Esther works one-on-one with clients in person at the Brisbane Mind Body Clinic or via Telehealth, offering tailored strategies such as CBTi, Sleep Restriction Therapy, and Dietary Management. Her integrative medicine approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive support, collaborating with other specialists to meet health needs. Esther has been warmly welcomed into our Anta Board as the Chair Member for Naturopathy.
To learn more about Esther and her practice, visit www.estherparker.com.au or www.brisbanemindbodyclinic.com.au.
For the full article, access the 2024 Summer Journal via the ANTA member portal.