Spring is only months away, and if you’re like most people, you may already envision what your outdoor areas will look like. Gardening allows you to design and cultivate a beautiful space that enhances the look of your home, but did you know that engaging in this hobby can also positively affect your sleep apnea? Read on to discover the connection and why you might want to reach for your shears and gloves this spring.
Improving Sleep Apnea: The Benefits of Gardening
The 2017 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) released a study that consisted of an estimated 60,000 people. Those who actively engaged in gardening experienced improved sleep patterns. This led to less fatigue the following day.
What researchers found is that two distinct factors can help promote better sleep: light exposure and physical activity. Gardening includes both, which means it can benefit one’s ability to get restful sleep.
Of course, even if a person is not gardening, being outside can encourage better health, especially when getting necessary rest. By stepping away from screens and artificial light and moving outdoors, it’s possible to lower stress levels, boost energy, increase focus, and encourage movement and physical activity.
Why Professional Treatment is Still Necessary
Although gardening forces you to use various muscles and engage in a low-impact form of exercise, it’s unlikely to be enough to help you get rid of your sleep apnea. This is why professional treatment is essential.
In addition to lifestyle changes, a proper diet, and stress-reducing activities, inquiring about a custom oral appliance, CPAP therapy, or more invasive treatment is best if you want to take control of your sleep.
Seeing a trusted expert who can evaluate your condition, perform a sleep study, make a proper diagnosis, and recommend an appropriate treatment option will put you on the right track to achieving the rest you desperately need.
Depending on the severity of your sleep apnea, you may achieve successful results with one or more of these solutions. No matter which one(s) your sleep dentist recommends, though, you can expect to no longer worry about bothersome obstructions keeping you awake at night.
Whether you’re looking for a new hobby or already sharpening your gardening shears, spend more time outside this spring and prepare to enjoy a more restful night’s sleep.
About the Practice
Star Sleep & Wellness in Dallas consists of highly trained specialists who treat sleep apnea, snoring, and other related sleep disorders. Offering an array of treatment options designed to address the underlying causes of OSA, we also provide helpful information you can use to change your habits at home and practice more sleep-friendly hobbies, like gardening. If you want to learn how working in your yard can lead to less fatigue, contact us.