Sleep apnea remains a common condition that millions of people throughout the United States experience. While various treatment options exist to minimize symptoms and improve quality of life, it’s common for patients to also seek positive lifestyle changes to further enhance daily living. Exercise, healthy eating, and meditation are likely suggestions, but what about gardening? Discover how spending time outside among the flowers can lead to better sleep.
Gardening & Sleep Apnea: What Does the Research Say?
A 2017 nationwide study conducted by the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System found that among 60,000 participants, those who practiced gardening regularly were less likely to report poor sleep quality.
Researchers claim that exposure to outdoor light and physical activity throughout the day promotes better sleep. Additionally, gardening can help boost mental health. Since depression is commonly linked to sleep apnea, this type of daily activity has its benefits.
Other research published in the Physical Activities Guideline for Americans states that gardening helps strengthen muscles but remains a low-risk for potential injuries – a beneficial and worthwhile hobby, especially for older individuals who struggle with poor sleep but cannot engage in rigorous exercise.
Additional benefits of gardening for improved sleep include connecting with nature, which can help reduce worry, and a sense of accomplishment, which can produce positive thoughts.
Can Gardening Be Enough to Curb Sleep Apnea?
Unfortunately, developing a green thumb is unlikely to cure your sleep apnea; however, it may help minimize your symptoms, especially those related to mental health.
If you suspect you have sleep apnea, do not wait to talk to a local dentist about what you’re experiencing. Snoring, daily fatigue, moodiness, low productivity, forgetfulness, frequent headaches, and waking up gasping for air are common signs of a more serious problem.
Your dentist can recommend a sleep study to formalize a diagnosis before developing a treatment plan designed to address your obstructed airway. While CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) therapy is most commonly recommended, many individuals have a hard time maneuvering the bulky machinery.
Instead, oral appliance treatment (OAT) is preferred, as it only requires a small appliance to be worn while you sleep. By gently moving the jaw forward, the airway remains open, allowing you to breathe easily throughout the night.
If you’re ready to take control of your bedtime, consider how the combination of professional treatment and positive lifestyle changes, such as gardening, can help improve your sleep quality and outlook on life.
About the Author
Dr. Rob Schumacher is a prosthodontist who also provides sleep dentistry to patients in need. With more than a decade of experience, he and the team at Schumacher Dental are pleased to provide sleep apnea treatment for those who struggle to breathe at night. With options available to help improve overall health and sleep quality, you are encouraged to contact us at (781) 334-3400 if you are ready to finally get the rest you desperately need.