Fosters Mattress Blog

All kinds of organisms run on circadian rhythms which help them function, from flowers opening and closing at the best time to nocturnal animals being aware of when to shelter away from predators.  So, what is a circadian rhythm and what is the affect on humans? It’s a 24-hour cycle that is part of our brain’s internal clock, running in the background to carry out essential body functions and processes. One of our most important circadian rhythms is the sleep-wake cycle  which, when properly aligned can promote consistent and restorative sleep and, when not, can wreak havoc. According the the...

Integrative physician, Deepa Verma focuses on proactive, preventative options for a person to increase longevity of good health and overall well being. She describes the four pillars of a healthy lifestyle. 1. Eat Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Dr. Verma especially encourages lentils, legumes, gluten-free grains, vegetables, fruits, and Ayurvedic spices such as turmeric, garlic and ginger. Also avoid processed foods, refined sugars or too much meat/dairy. Your body will thank you with better energy and stronger immunity. 2. Get Movement and Exercise: Physical activity a few times a week prevents our DNA from oxidative damage and inflammation, increasing longevity. 3. Sleep: It is crucial to...

Are you stuck trying to fall asleep ahead of your partner to avoid their loud snoring? Or are you the one keeping the household awake with your deafening snores? The Better Sleep Council suggests several potential and easy ways to reduce snoring. Before you try these techniques, however, if you are a chronic snorer, be sure to assess with a health professional that it isn't a sign of more serious health conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea. Stay On your SideWhen you sleep on your back, your tongue can block your throat causing snoring. Side sleeping allows easier air flow and keeps the log-sawing...

Life happens. Over and over again. And, while we hope that when it does, it provides you with joyful and peaceful moments, the reality is that life also throws us curve balls filled with angst and stress. Do you have ways to de-stress? Do you find opportunities to clear your mind and feel refreshed again? We hope so. And if you do not, or you want a different 12-minute option, here's one to try.  Mindful.org provides this mindful meditation that allows you to rest your body in an awareness that in turn restores your overworked self. You will be guided toward gratitude...

Columnist, Bill Murphy, Jr. stumbled upon a new sleep pattern on a recent trip. Experiencing jet lag, Murphy ended up going to bed at 10 p.m. for several days in a row, a new bedtime pattern for him. He discovered that he felt really good after this new bedtime regimen. But he was unaware of the extra benefit - that he was establishing a habit that increases his chances for a healthy heart. A recent incredibly extensive UK health study involving more than 88,000 people found that those who go to bed between 10 and 11 p.m. were significantly less likely to develop cardiovascular disease...

Fall colors are gorgeous, and are also signs of shorter days as we head toward winter. And while fewer daylight hours and colder weather can be the perfect reason to cozy up in your warm bed, the change in seasons may also create challenges not just for falling asleep but also for staying asleep. How can you ensure the change of seasons doesn't negatively affect your sleep? Writer Emily Laurence gives some great advice directly from a sleep-medicine specialist: Stay Bright: Yes, light is a big factor in sleepiness. Melatonin is a sleep-regulating hormone and is affected by energizing light. If you keep your...