Sleep is a state that is experienced by many species – mammals, birds and fish, as well as invertebrates. In fact even fruit flies and ants sleep and research studies have found that sleep is important for survival, as well as good health. During the sleep cycle individuals experience a reduction in bodily functions, such as voluntary movements, reaction to external stimuli and the breakdown of cell structures. However, the synthesis of cell structures increases, which is needed to build up the body. For example, muscle and bone growth occur during the sleep cycle.

In the past sleep was thought to be a rather passive experience, in which all the bodies systems were at rest- including the brain. However, research has shown that sleep is actually a mixture of passive phases and active phases. Many of the bodies systems may be at rest, while others are working full on - making sure that the sleep cycle progresses as it should. Sleep occurs in levels, but the two main ones are NREM and REM sleep. NREM sleep actually means – non rapid eye movement, and it occurs during most of the sleep cycle. During this part of the sleep cycle the individuals moves into sleep, and may well be unconscious, but there are no eye movements and no dreaming.

REM sleep occurs at the end of the sleep cycle, and it is an extremely important part of sleep. When REM sleep occurs the neurons in the spinal cord shut off, which in turn causes a temporary paralysis of the muscles in the extremities. This is necessary to stop the sleeper from acting out their dreams. When this system goes askew sleep walking, sleep sex and sleep eating occur. Most average adults will spend 2 hours in REM sleep. REM sleep is known to motivate the areas of the brain that are connected to learning.

The circadian rhythm is the biological rhythm which most species follow, although the nuances vary between species, and are usually affected by sunlight and temperature. Circadian Rhythms control the eating and sleeping cycles. When there is a problem with the circadian rhythms insomnia and other sleep related issues may ensue. These problems are usually due to a dip in Melatonin, a hormone created by the pineal gland, which plays a huge role in regulating the sleep wake cycle.

Melatonin production can be reduced by age and sleep, however, holistic supplementation with Melatonin has been shown to be able to readjust the sleep cycle. This has been a huge boon for those who have insomnia, because it can often help them reset the sleep cycle, thereby allowing them to get a relaxing and deep sleep.

• Sleep is necessary for survival
• Holistic supplementation has been shown to be effective in aiding a sleep issue
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• Some individuals experience sleep issues

Sleep is needed for physical, mental and emotional health. Sleep deprivation can cause people to have a variety of health related issues. It can cause an increase in accidents, work related accidents, reduced productivity, exhaustion, fatigue and reduced physical energy, as well as depression, stress, and frustration. Many people experience varying levels of sleep deprivation because they have some kind of sleep disorder such as insomnia.

As mentioned above, Melatonin has become an extremely valuable tool in addressing insomnia and other sleep issue. Also Lemon Balm Extract, an herbal sedative, has been shown to be an exceptional method of easing the restlessness and edginess that can keep sleep at bay. Melatonin and Lemon Balm Extract have been shown to work exceptionally well together, and they are often found in the most productive sleep aids on the market-because they really work.