Getting great sleep is probably the most important aspect of recovery. Deep restful sleep that allows the body to go through the multiple sleep cycles necessary can’t be underestimated. Reishi has been a favorite mushroom of mine to help calm the central nervous system. And Lion's mane is showing a ton of potential too. Coupling those two mushrooms to ensure good sleep is why we made Myco Rest. To help people get a good night's sleep so they can wake up refreshed and ready to roll. -Jake Plummer
The world’s most powerful nootropic doesn’t cost a penny – all you have to do is close your eyes. At least that’s how simple it should be. Essential to cognitive and cardiovascular health, sleep is the best thing any of us can do for our bodies, but most of us aren’t getting enough.
Why aren’t we sleeping?
Modern culture is working against us. We’re surrounded by screens of all sizes, each affecting our brain’s ability to regulate our circadian rhythms. Long work hours encourage a sedentary lifestyle peppered with vices like nicotine, caffeine, and alcohol, all of which have a negative impact on sleep.
Good sleep hygiene revolves around consistency: regular exercise, regular mealtimes, regular bedtime. In a society that’s always on the go, regularity becomes elusive – and so does healthy sleep.
The Four Stages of Sleep
Healthy sleep cycles through four stages. Each stage has its own unique function geared toward repair and rejuvenation.
Stage 1: NREM - Transitional Light Sleep
The first 5-10 minutes of sleep. Alpha brain waves give in to Theta frequencies and muscles begin to relax – you may experience twitching or falling sensations or even hallucinations as they do.
Stage 2: NREM - Light Sleep
50-60% of sleep time. Body temperature drops, heart slows down, and “sleep spindles” are produced as your brain files and logs the day’s memories.
Stage 3: NREM - Deep Sleep
Also known as slow-wave or delta sleep because of the number of deep, slow delta waves produced by your brain. Major physical restoration takes place in this stage. Cellular repair strengthens organs, tissue, and the immune system, stimulates muscle growth, and burns fat.
Stage 4: REM Sleep
The first round of REM sleep usually takes place about 90 minutes in. This is when you do most of your dreaming and convert short-term memories into long-term. Each round of REM is longer than the one before, so you want to catch as many cycles as you can.
Not all Zzzs are created equal. Prescription sleeping pills may help you power off, but you don’t get the full reboot. Many pharmaceuticals have been found to suppress REM and slow-wave sleep, two of the most important stages for sleep’s restorative benefits. Fortunately, there are potent natural sleep aids growing all around us.
Mushrooms for Sleep
Functional mushrooms can be powerful allies for deep, restful sleep. As adaptogens, Reishi and Lion’s Mane help the body adapt to modern stressors. Reishi has been shown to help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer while Lion’s Mane promotes REM sleep and supports healthy sleep-wake cycles.
Myco Rest
Our Myco Rest formula combines the powers of Reishi and Lion’s Mane along with Suntheanine, a high-purity L-theanine that can induce a state of calm in as little as 30-60 minutes. Check it out!
