Sleep - Part of the Natural Rhythm of Life
posted by Rex | January 12, 2010
If you separated a traditional mattress into all of its individual parts you would have a bunch of metal, synthetic fabric, petroleum based foam and some plastic. Essentially, most mattresses are made from chemicals and metal.
Why should this be of concern?
When at rest or at sleep, your body is vulnerable. Your body “breathes”; both absorbing and releasing elements into and from the environment; it is part of our life-rhythm. Toxic gases may be released from your traditional mattress and the fluids released from your body at night can mix with the chemicals in a traditional mattress creating a toxic swamp that can be detrimental to your health.
Traditional mattresses provide breeding havens for dust mites, mold and mildew. Many people unknowingly suffer from allergic reactions to the surface that they sleep on and the creatures that live in it.
After a few years of use, traditional mattresses begin to sag; especially pillow top models.
The coils and springs wear and start to separate, creating a canoe effect. If your mattress is flippable; that may help prolong the inevitable deterioration of a conventional mattress, but only by a few months or a couple of years at best.
When stripped down to the basics, your antiquated traditional mattress looks like a medieval torture device composed of carpet insulation and wiry springs rather than a rest inducing sleep sanctuary.
As our knowledge of man-made environmental hazards has expanded, our awareness of the importance of natural, organic products has grown as well. Organic mattresses, which by nature are healthier, have become more refined and elegant – even surpassing the comfort level of expensive conventional inner spring mattresses.
Gone are the days when consumers where forced to settle for “canvas-like, assemble-yourself, latex slabs in a bag”. Today, top of the line organic mattresses, like CozyPure®, offer beautiful, tight-top finished organic mattresses that out shine the aesthetics of much more expensive designer mattresses. Companies such as, CozyPure®, create organic mattress that are finished with soft, luxurious, organic color-grown, which reflects it’s balance and harmony with nature.
Natural latex is pure and fresh; both soft and buoyant, allowing a comfortable amount of softness, while still maintaining the necessary amount of orthopedic support required during healthy sleep.
When combining the health, environmental, durability and comfort issues of a conventional mattress, versus a quality organic mattress, then the choice is clear – an organic, natural latex mattress is far superior.
For help creating your perfect sleep environment, call Organic Comfort Zone at 800-229-7571 today.
Topics: Misc Ramblings, Natural Bedroom | No Comments »
Dangers Hidden in Your Mattress
posted by Rex | January 4, 2010
Looking for a cheap mattress? Before making that purchase consider the importance of the surface that you might be sleeping on, after all, on average, you spend eight hours every night on your mattress.
Sleep is the time when your body regenerates and is the most vulnerable. A percentage of the contents of your mattress will be taken into your body either by respiratory or dermal absorption.
Conventional mattresses are breeding grounds for mold, mildew and dust mites which can cause moderate to severe allergic reactions in some people. Less apparent, but potentially more harmful are the toxic flame retardants used in traditional mattresses. The polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) class of synthetic chemicals used as flame retardants have been found in alarming concentrations in human blood and breast milk - a potentially major concern for human health.
According to Margarita Curras-Collazo, an associate professor of cell biology and neuroscience, “Long-term exposures to PBDEs may pose a human health risk, especially to infants and toddlers who are more likely to ingest household dust or acquire these chemicals through mother’s milk.”
Though PBDE’s can be found in many household items, such as televisions, computers and furniture; few items come in to direct contact with you and for as long of an extended period as your mattress. Therefore, it only makes good health sense to avoid a sleep surface that contains any chemical fire retardants until more scientific research has been done.
As a safe, healthy alternative that’s free of toxic chemicals; natural, organic latex mattresses are all at once, dust mite, mold and mild dew resistant and contain no PBDE’s. A quality organic mattress uses natural wool or other plant based batting instead of dangerous chemicals as a fire retardant, enabling it’s owner to sleep assured that they are not absorbing harmful gases, allergens and other harmful components from their sleep sanctuary.
A quality, natural, organic latex mattress provides the necessary orthopedic support required for healthy body restoration and with minimal care, will outlast a traditional mattress by 20 years or more.
The only drawback is that a good organic mattress may require more cash upfront, however, when factoring in the health benefits and longevity of a natural latex mattress; it proves to be the better bargain.
With all the research data presented, common sense concludes the better option is purchasing an organic mattress, which only leaves the choice of organic mattress manufacturers in question.
Most people agree that buying American made products is better; the quality regulations and standards are higher and because the merchandise is not imported, it is not saturated with pesticides inside cargo containers. To a greater extent, American Made means buying local rather than international, thus, reducing the carbon footprint.
If you’ve done your homework properly, then it’s finally time to enjoy all the wonderful benefits of a healthy, sound and safe good night’s sleep for the next few generations. Your time, money and energy will have been well spent – now relax and pleasant dreams.
Give us a call toll free at 800-229-7571 and we will be happy to talk to you about healthy sleep alternatives.
Topics: Misc Ramblings, Natural Bedroom | No Comments »
What Part Do You Play in the American Economy?
posted by Rex | December 22, 2009
We all agree that the state of the American economy is not good – but really who is at fault? The Government? The War? Or could it be that a large part of the blame should be placed right in the hands of the American citizens?
Consider for a few minutes your purchases over the past couple of years – all of your purchases; from laundry detergent to appliances and automobiles. How many, (if any), were American made? My guess is if you are like most Americans; not many.
With the slightest bit of logic, it’s easy to predict and conclude the economic outlook and if you squint your eyes, you can see who is making the large profits; the folks at the top of companies that import cheap foreign products.
Granted, at one time or another, we have all bought into the hype of the discount merchandisers – more stuff for lower prices, but we lost sight of the long-term consequences which is financial devastation for our own economy.
Compound the financial decline, the lack of quality control and the environmental impact manufacturing and importing foreign goods has and the inexpensive imported products prove to be much less of a bargain than originally thought. In the long term; cheap imported merchandise is much more costly than quality American made products.
When buying American manufactured goods, a consumer can be assured a higher quality and that the dollars they spend are recycled back into the economy, thereby enriching American koffers. The money spent on American goods re-circulates, helping to empower the economy, thereby enriching all of us.
Commonly, people excuse themselves when asked why they did not consider purchasing American made by explaining the difficulties and effort involved in finding homegrown merchandise. Today, that excuse is voided thanks to the internet. With little energy, American made goods can be found online and delivered right to the customer’s door. Less stress and a wider selection is only a few key strokes away.
Granted, I work for an American company that sells American made products and it is in my best interest for customers to purchase from CozyPure®, but if you trace the origins of our merchandise, you will find that the chain extends well beyond the sales floor and how many people are reliant on your purchase.
A CozyPure® mattress begins with the milk of the rubber tree which is converted into natural latex rubber foam. The cotton used is American grown Certified Organic Cotton and is the absolute most pure form of cotton available today. No pesticides, herbicides or fertilizers are used during it’s cultivation and no chemicals or preservatives (such as formaldehyde) are added in the processing. It is premium cotton that’s pure and clean - soft and beautiful. The cotton is carefully milled in America in order to create a safe, beautiful finish.
Like our cotton, CozyPure® wool is also American farmed. In the natural surroundings of the northern coastal areas, there is always a fairly strong sea breeze and in the course of time, the high humidity combined with the cold wind has created an environment where the sheep have learned to protect themselves against these harsh weather conditions by developing a thick and long-crinkled fleece with an extremely high content of lanoline. The high crinkle factor of our pure wool provides a unique thermal system: while regulating air; it insulates warmth at the same time.
From growing the cotton, raising the sheep, carding the wool and milling the cotton to finally, building our mattresses and creating our fine line of bedding products; we are keeping Americans employed. The entire process from placing the cotton seed in the grown to the delivery driver who delivers yours beautiful organic mattress and bedding is all part of the chain that keeps your American dollar recycling and improving the economy while providing you with a healthy, safe, quality, organic and natural sleep system.
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A Health Plan for America Begins with the Basics
posted by Rex | December 21, 2009
A new health plan for America is the current and constant topic up for debate and it seem that everyone has an opinion. The only agreement is that we all need to stay as healthy as possible and enjoy the highest quality of life, but there are more keys to good health than doctors, hospitals and drugs.
The building blocks of good health are fresh air, clean water, a balanced diet, proper exercise, rest and deep, peaceful sleep. When all the life sustaining components are met in harmony and balance, then health risks are reduced; add in a dose of love and companionship and we will all feel better!
Nutrition and exercise are often addressed when discussing healthy lifestyles, but rest and sleep are frequently neglected; while lack of sleep remains a chief complaint among many Americans. Busy schedules, stress and improper mattresses and bedding account for the growing numbers of our sleep deprived population.
Your bedroom should be your own special sleep sanctuary. Eliminate things such as televisions, computers and other distractions and keep your bedroom clean, simple and fresh. Create a sleep sanctuary that is calm, cool and as organic and natural as possible.
Starting with your mattress and working outward seems most logical when creating your sleep environment.
- How old is your mattress?
Most conventional mattresses are designed to need replacing within 5 - 7 years. If your mattress is 5 years old or older, chances are, it’s time for a new one. If you have a quality natural latex mattress, then it should last 20 or more years before retirement is required.
- How comfortable is your mattress?
As our bodies age, we may need a sleep surface that offers additional layers of softness. Perhaps a new organic mattress topper is the solution; a few inches of natural latex can make a considerable difference.
- Are allergies keeping your from a good nights rest?
Conventional mattresses and bedding can harbor dust mites, mold and mildew. Natural latex mattresses are mold, mildew and dust mite resistant and most quality organic mattresses contain organic wool which acts as a natural fire barrier while it wicks away moisture.
- Are you hot at night?
Are you waking up feeling over heated? The chemical reactions between your body and conventional mattresses can make you feel uncomfortably hot while you are sleeping. Natural latex mattresses have temperature regulating properties that adjust to your body temperature so over heating is never a problem. The same applies to organic wool comforters and natural and organic pillows.
- How do you select the right mattress?
Choosing a comfort level is an individual decision, whether your preference is firm, medium or soft, but remember that you can always make a mattress softer by adding a topper, however, you cannot make a mattress firmer.
Consult with a knowledgeable sleep expert. Most reputable mattress companies will have trained staff members to help you select the perfect mattress for your specific needs.
Topics: Misc Ramblings, Natural Bedroom | No Comments »
New Life to an Old Mattress?
posted by Rex | December 8, 2009
You can give that old mattress new life by adding an organic mattress topper. Mattress toppers are a layer of padding which is placed on top of your regular mattress in order to provide better support and temperature control. CozyPure® offers a variety of three toppers to choose from in order to suit everyone’s needs.
The CozyPure® Wool Topper has a natural soft, fluffiness that welcomes you to bed every night. It’s better than a featherbed because wool is smoother, it stays in place and it’s more breathable and resistant to dust mites. The CozyPure® luxurious Organic Wool Topper is a sumptuous 3″ of hand-tufted wool layered in full bats to cuddle every curve and offers you a restful sleep. Many of Organic Comfort Zone’s customers who suffer from arthritic pain or Fibromyalgia claim the CozyPure® Wool Topper helps relieve discomfort and provides them with a higher quality sleep.
The CozyPure® Cuddle Sack Toppper will provide you with a good night’s sleep that surrounds you with plush softness and outrageous comfort. If you’re looking for a softer mattress surface to sink into… then the Cozy Cuddle Sack is for you. This unique topper contains thousands of La’Noodles, (tiny uniformed natural latex nuggets), which gently caress you as they adjust to your movements and contour to your body. The CozyPure® Cuddle Sack Topper is covered with luxurious 100% organic cotton fabric, creating a “feather-like” mattress topper that is soft and puffy plus free of toxic chemicals and unlike feather beds and feather toppers, the Cozy Cuddle Sack is mold, mildew and dust mite resistant.
CozyPure® also offers the Cozy Pillozzz-Premium Zoned Latex Topper which is ergonomically designed with gentle “sculpted pillows” on the surface and a three-inch 5-zoned core for unbeatable pressure point reduction and amazing sleep satisfaction. Every Cozy Pillozzz Topper is made from natural latex rubber with the incredible density of dunlop, yet amazingly soft with a 24 ILD. The “Cozy Pillozzz Topper” was independently tested as one of the world’s best performing latex products for durability and high-resiliency. The CozyPure® exclusive sculpted “pilozzz” gently cuddle every curve while the multi-zoned base maintains excellent support in critical areas of your body. Horizontal chambers are also implemented throughout to provide added ventilation, breathability and air flow. For additional stability CozyPure has incorporated edge support made entirely from natural latex. The Cozy Pillozzz-Premium Zoned Latex Topper is an exceptional natural latex topper to gently soften any mattress and enhance deeper sleep. Expertly tight-top finished with CozyPure®’s unique “Triple Fresh Comfort Quilting” consisting of skal-certified organic cotton three-layer stretch knit, organically managed wool and natural latex right inside the quilting. The border is made from exquisite skal-certified organic cotton damask featuring subtle shades of colorgrown sage.
For anyone that does not have an organic mattress, a CozyPure® organic mattress topper may be the next best thing, or if you are beginning to feel that your old mattress is feeling a bit too firm, adding a topper may be the solution!
Please feel free to call us here at Organic Comfort Zone at 800-229-7571 and we would be happy to discuss your many sleep options.
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Take a deep breathe and relax, Organic Comfort Zone has put together a list of Holiday SALE GIFTS
posted by Rex | November 30, 2009
If you’re like I am, Holiday gift buying panic is starting to settle in. What to give, how much to spend and the hustle and bustle of it all can be overwhelming. Take a deep breathe and relax, Organic Comfort Zone has put together a list of Holiday SALE gifts that will make the loved ones in your life happy and reduce your stress, while celebrating organic comfort made in the USA. CozyPure® products offer great long-term value so you have peace of mind knowing your gift won’t be gone in six months.
My personal pick is a quick and easy way to transform anyone’s sleep system; Organic Comfort Zone has taken some all-time favorite organic bedding basics and wrapped them in a cuddle package offering you a big savings and a better way to sleep!
Maybe your loved ones don’t have an organic mattress yet, but you want to surround them in a natural paradise. Maybe they have an organic mattress and now you want to enhance their organic sleep experience. The Cozy Cuddle Sleep Package includes a CozyPure® old-world European hand-tufted organic comforter filled with lofty organically-managed wool, which offers a substantial weight with a surprising lighter feel once you are under cover. A CozyPure® wool comforter naturally regulates and maintains the body’s optimum temperature for sleep. This magnificent comforter will provide years of cuddly warmth and sleep satisfaction.
The Cozy Cuddle Sleep Package also includes a CozyPure® pure Wool Pad. The CozyPure® Wool Pad is also hand-tufted and offers the same astounding benefits as the comforter; dust mite resistant, temperature regulating, naturally dissipates heat, breathable and pure with no synthetics or chemicals.
Finally, The Cozy Cuddle Sleep Package offers an award winning La’Noodle pillow, which beautifully and comfortably compliments the entire package because this has proven to be a customer favorite.
If you’re in the market for simple thoughtful organic gifts, Organic Comfort Zone has Holiday sale prices on something for everyone’s budget; from socks, pillows, blankets to organic CozyPure® mattresses. If you need more ideas, simply visit Organic Comfort Zone on the web or if you are in the Hampton Roads area, stop by the showroom at 201 West Ocean View Avenue in Norfolk – we’d love to see you. If you still are unsure and need more ideas, call us at 800-229-7571. Happy Holiday shopping!
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Organic Comfort Zone and CozyPure® is offering both Amazing Sale prices and FREE SHIPPING!
posted by Rex | November 25, 2009
For just a few more days Organic Comfort Zone and CozyPure® is offering both amazing sale prices and FREE SHIPPING!
Consider the value of CozyPure® products at their normal price. CozyPure® organic mattresses and bedding accessories are designed and manufactured with top quality organic and natural components that will last generations with proper care; purchasing CozyPure® merchandise is like investing in heirlooms!
Until November 30, our customers can receive both sale prices and FREE SHIPPING! Call us now for details at 800-229-7571 and sleep assured that your bedding is the finest and healthiest sleep system available at unbelievable prices.
Topics: Misc Ramblings, Natural Bedroom | No Comments »
Want to Cuddle?
posted by Rex | November 24, 2009
Do you want to cuddle? Our CozyPure® Organic Wool Comforter is a favorite to cuddle under every night - it’s designed to last for decades with proper care and all CozyPure® Organic Wool Comforters are on sale until November 30!
Every CozyPure® comforter is expertly custom crafted using lofty chemical-free organic wool hand-tufted inside our soft GOTS-certified organic cotton sateen fabric.
The only problem with our CozyPure® comforter?
It’s so cuddlicious… you may never want to get out of bed.
Call us now AT 800-229-7571 to order yours or visit CozyPure® and order online.
For a GREAT HOLIDAY GIFT GIVING IDEA, consider giving the GIFT of a GOOD SLEEP! Our award-winning La’Noodle pillow is on SALE!
Buy one and get the second one for HALF-PRICE! The CozyPure® La’Noodle Pillow makes the perfect Holiday Gift. For more insight to why we love the La’Noodle pillow so much, watch this video of Hans explaining the benifits and options of the La’Noodle.
Make someone happy every night with thoughts of you & gratitude!
Topics: Misc Ramblings, Natural Bedroom | No Comments »
The key to living in any area that is storm prone is being prepared
posted by Rex | November 20, 2009
The November 2009 Nor’ Easter is now history, but damage throughout Hampton Roads remains.
I faired well. My little house sustained no damage and with the exception of no electricity for nearly 30 hours, I was unharmed and maybe a bit wiser and more grateful as a result.
Without electricity, some of the luxuries we assume are basic in our life cease to function. Without electricity my computer was unable to operate and I found myself suffering from writer’s withdrawal. Finally, by candle light, with paper and pencil, I recorded my thoughts and inspirations; it was quite enjoyable.
On the downside, as each hour without power passed, my house became colder. The wind and rain pounded, which increased the psychological effects of the chill. As I sat in the living-room, using a coffee table with 3 illuminated candles as a writing desk, I realized our human vulnerability to the elements. With out fur or scales like most of the other inhabitants of this planet we need something to protect us from the elements.
Decidedly chilled, I grabbed my CozyPure® organic wool comforter from my bed and carried it to the living room. I wrapped myself in it’s warmth and continued to write. The weather was all the inspiration I needed as my comforter sheltered me from the cold. I felt warm, safe, secure and content.
Cuddling under my hand-tuffed, chemical-free Amaizing Wool comforter with it’s crisp skal certified organic cotton covering, I began to fantasize about days gone by; before their was electrically powered homes and modern heating systems. I thought about what life must have been like when people cared for themselves with what nature had provided for them. My CozyPure® organic wool comforter is much like what folks from long ago would have used for warmth, comfort and security. In truth, my Amaizing Wool comforter may be more elegantly crafted and durable than those from days gone by, but essentially, it is much the same; pure and natural.
The key to living in any area that is storm prone is being prepared. I keep candles, flashlights and my comforter handy just in case and now is the perfect time for making preparations! CozyPure® Organic Wool Comforters are on sale through November, so don’t delay! Call us at 800-229-7571 to order yours now!
Topics: Misc Ramblings, Natural Bedroom | No Comments »
A Payment Plan to Match Your Budget
posted by Rex | November 2, 2009
As the Holiday Season approaches, more and more people are taking advantage of the Organic Comfort Zone’s simple Lay-A-Way program. It’s an easy way to purchase a beautiful new CozyPure® mattress with healthy organic bedding on a budget with a payment plan that matches your needs.
Every time that you make a payment towards your purchase, it brings you closer to a perfect night’s sleep. The simple Lay-A-Way plan allows our customers a goal and something to plan for and get excited about. In the interim, it’s a great time to clean and redesign your bedroom; make it green through and through!
If the Holiday Season is too busy for you to even think about re-doing your bedroom, instead, plan on starting the New Year healthy and organic! We can arrange delivery at the beginning of 2010. New, organic, CozyPure® sleep solutions will help you keep your New Years resolution to live healthy and eco-friendly the rest of the year.
For more information and details about our simple Lay-A-Way program, call Hans at 800-229-7571 today. He will be happy to answer your questions.
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Simple, Eco-Smart Holiday Shopping
posted by Rex | October 28, 2009
More eco-smart folks are shopping online than ever before. The savings in fuel, the frustrations of driving, parking and fighting the crowds can make the Holiday experience much more pleasant and to say the least; much better for the environment.
This year, do something wonderful for someone else and for the planet. By giving a gift that is both healthy and environmentally friendly, you show that you really care.
Here at Organic Comfort Zone, we have a large variety of organic and natural products for any price range; from organic soaps and body sprays to bedding and organic mattresses. As an added bonus; our merchandise is American made with the highest level of craftsmanship available.
This year – shop smart, shop early and give gifts that will bring joy and happiness without damaging the planet or more importantly; the recipient’s health.
Topics: Misc Ramblings, Natural Bedroom, Apparel & Textiles, Soaps & Body Care | No Comments »
a Kitchen Ingredient Goes to the Bathroom…
posted by ~cher | October 26, 2009
THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT NEWSPAPER
Published October 24, 2009
GREEN TIDINGS by Cheryl Hahn
Last month I wrote about making your own eco-friendly homemade recipes, and with Halloween just around the corner, I couldn’t help but think about a little trick I played on my kids when they were little. I called it “Powdered Donuts”.
After my kids had a nice, clean bath, I’d dry them off and pull out “the little glass jar” which guaranteed squeals of delight from my young toddlers. If I forgot to bring the jar, they would remind me with a scream “Make me a powdered donut!”
Talcum powder (also known as Talc) is used in almost all powders because it absorbs moisture. Dusting with Talc causes a high prospect of inhalation which can harm the respiratory system. Exposing children to this carcinogen is dangerous and unnecessary, especially because there’s a very simple alternative: Cornstarch.
Talc is a mineral that’s mined and crushed into a powder creating fine particles similar to asbestos. The trace minerals are removed; however the microscopic asbestos-like fibers remain. Talcum powder has been linked to pulmonary complaints and some studies also link Talc to a variety of cancers. Cornstarch has never demonstrated any potential toxicity or harmful effects.
Buy a box of Cornstarch, put it in a tight glass jar, and label it “Powdered Donuts”. An old terry towel was perfect for cutting out circular powder-puff applicators for dusting my little donuts every night. I guarantee your kids will love this little “trick” and you’ll enjoy the peace of mind knowing the fresh dusting is silky pure and causes no harmful toxicity.
For adults who love powder, this simple recipe allows you to make your very own custom scented powder: Fill a small zip lock bag with cornstarch and add a drop or two of your favorite essential oil. Shake well to disperse any lumps and then place into an airtight container. Now you have a safe powder that’s uniquely scented to your liking, without synthetic fragrances or other additives.
I hope this little trick was a treat for you to read and hopefully something to enjoy for yourself. Have a safe Halloween!
PS - Some folks like to sprinkle a little powder on their freshly washed sheets so they feel silky soft, as well as help with moisture.
____________________________
Cheryl Hahn is founder of Norfolk-based businesses Organic Comfort Zone, manufacturers of organic bedding and Tomorrow’s World, one of America’s first eco-stores. For more information visit organiccomfortzone.com or tomorrowsworld.com, or call (757) 480-8500.
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Good Night. Sleep Tight. The Doctor was Right.
posted by ~cher | October 14, 2009
by Rex Mitchell for Organic Comfort Zone News published Oct 14, 2009
Looking for ways to feel strong and invincible? Want to slow down the aging process and look more beautiful? Thinking about shedding a few pounds? Searching for ways to strengthen your immunity against colds and viruses? The solution could be lurking behind your bedroom door.
According to a survey taken by the National Sleep Foundation, the typical American sleeps under seven hours per night on weeknights and more than one-fifth of the population reports sleepiness interferes with activities several days a week. Alarmingly, most said they were resigned to this situation. About half of the population reports difficulties falling asleep or staying asleep, waking up early and feeling unrefreshed. Many adults unsuccessfully attempt to “catch up” on their sleep during the weekend or on their days off from work.
Recent studies now indicate conclusive links between quality sleep and how it affects stress, work performance, athletic abilities, obesity and aging.
The evidence of a correlation between stress and sleep or lack there of is overwhelming. According to the Better Sleep Council (BSC) and the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), “Stress is a leading culprit that is robbing Americans of sleep.” In essence, the organizations found that stress can create a lack of sleep, while a lack of sleep will compound stress. Additional research for the Oklahoma State University (OSU) confirms that poor sleep can elevate stress. The findings from the OSU research study can be found in the March 2009 Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, which also suggests that improved sleep quality reduces stress and helps us deal with and manage everyday stressors.
Diet and lifestyle play an important part in getting a good night’s sleep, but according to the OSU study, there is a significant decrease in stress after a good night’s sleep on a new mattress compared to one that is more than five years old. The BSC advises consumers to evaluate their conventional coil mattress for optimum comfort and consider replacing it every five to seven years. When replacing a worn mattress, great consideration should be given to a natural, organic latex mattress which will provide orthopedic and therapeutic support without need for replacement for twenty years and beyond. The CozyPure® brand organic mattress is favored highly amongst owners for quality, durability and reliability.
“The components we use in CozyPure® mattresses are rated superior for safe emissions, as well as longevity and resiliency.” says Cheryl Hahn, owner of Organic Comfort Zone. “We take these healthy quality components and build healthy sleep systems designed for outrageous organic comfort to provide deep and nutritious rest.”
The CRN says “Now, more than ever, it’s important to think about taking an integrative approach to preventative healthcare.” Getting a good night’s sleep on a supportive, quality natural organic mattress is an investment in one’s own healthy lifestyle.
Lack of quality sleep can affect more than your mood and personal life; according to the BSC, employees are paying a high price for too little sleep when it comes to productivity. “Some believe you can accomplish more if you spend less time sleeping, but limited sleep can affect every aspect of your life, including job performance,” said Dr. Bert Jacobson, Better Sleep Month spokesperson and author of the new study Subjective Rating of Perceived Back Pain, Stiffness and Sleep Quality Following Introduction of Medium-Firm Bedding Systems. “In fact, sleep deprivation impacts your level of alertness, your productivity and your ability to socially interact with colleagues.”
The results from a survey conducted in 2007 by the BSC showed that employees are attempting to compensate for a lack of quality sleep by:
* Drinking coffee or other caffeinated drinks (33 percent)
* Taking a nap (17 percent)
* Going outside for fresh air (18 percent)
Startlingly, only 13 percent of Americans said that they are willing to commit to more sleep to feel more awake and productive at work, which stresses the fact that every minute of sleep needs to be at optimum quality. Our sleep deprived society cannot afford to loose precious sleep wasted on an antiquated mattress and sleep system. A healthy sleep environment and a new organic mattress, pillows and wool comforter will provide a deeper, more peaceful and relaxing slumber, allowing Americans to wake with fewer joint, muscle and body aches, while feeling much more refreshed and productive.
Over-extended Americans have become far too reliant on the “quick fixes” of stimulant drinks, including tea, coffee, energy drinks and so-called performance enhancement supplements which claim to improve all aspects of our daily lives from sports to our sex lives while ignoring what many experts say; “all we really need is a good night’s sleep”.
As further evidence to the impact that healthy sleep has on our bodies and coordination, a recent research study, authored by Cheri Mah of Stanford University, was conducted on a half dozen healthy students on the Stanford men’s basketball team, who maintained their typical sleep-wake patterns for two-weeks, followed by an extended sleep period in which they were allowed as much extra sleep as possible. To evaluate improvements in athletic performance, the students were judged based on their sprint time and basketball shooting percentages. The results of the study showed significant improvements in athletic performance, including faster sprint time and increased free-throws. The athletes also reported increased energy and improved mood during practices and games, as well as a decreased level of fatigue.
The amount of quality, healthy sleep a person gets affects his or her physical health, emotional well-being, mental abilities, productivity and performance. Studies associate lack of sleep with serious health problems such as an increased risk of depression, obesity, cardiovascular disease and diabetes, while subjects that received adequate healthy sleep experienced improved mental health, cognitive skills, improved metabolism and stronger immune systems.
Furthermore, insufficient sleep causes neurocognitive changes such as excessive daytime sleepiness, altered mood, and increased risk for work-related injury and automotive accidents. With declining sleep times there has also been an increase in the number of both obese and severely obese people in the United States.
Robert D. Vorona, M.D., from Eastern Virginia Medical School in Norfolk, VA and colleagues examined patients’ total sleep time per 24 hours in relation to their body mass index. One-thousand-one patients completed a questionnaire involving demographics, medical problems, sleep habits, and sleep disorders. The patients were classified as being of normal weight, overweight, obese, or severely obese.
The researchers found that total sleep time decreased as body fat increased, except in the severely obese group. Men slept an average of 27 minutes less than women, and overweight and obese patients slept less than patients with normal body fat. The difference in total sleep time between patients with a normal body fat and the other patients was 16 minutes per day, reaching 112 minutes, or 1.86 hours, over a week. In addition, night-shift work was associated with 42 minutes less total sleep time.
The findings of this study suggest that extensions of sleep time may be necessary, as an extra 20 minutes of sleep per night seems to be associated with a lower body fat.
Finally, when all variables are considered, it can easily be concluded that lack of quality sleep contributes dramatically to the aging process; superficially, we look worn and tired and internally, it’s much the same.
Sleep is a time when our bodies heal. During deep sleep, our heart rate slows and our brain begins to act in a different way; this is the time when the body is healing and regenerating. Scientists are beginning to realize more of the physical effects that lack of proper sleep has on the body. There is recognition that sleep deprivation weakens the immune system, preventing the body from being able to ward off infections and viruses. Compound a weakened immune system with mold, mildew and dust mites that live and multiply in conventional mattresses and there’s a formula for disaster. Because natural, organic CozyPure® mattresses are mold, mildew and dust mite resistant, sleepers are enabled with much purer respiration allowing a deeper, safer sleep, which in turn encourages immunity.
In a study done at the University of Chicago, Dr. Eve Van Cauter found that, “after four hours of sleep for six consecutive nights, healthy young men had blood test results that nearly matched those of diabetics. Their ability to process blood sugar was reduced by 30 percent, they had a huge drop in their insulin response, and they had elevated levels of a stress hormone called cortisol, which can lead to hypertension and memory impairment”.
Lack of sleep or improper sleep has a tremendous negative impact on daily life, including social, professional and physical well-being. Something as simple and base as slumber is far too often overlooked as a cause of failings or lack of advancement in our careers, marriages, weight loss and even recovery from illness.
It is time for a wake-up call for Americans to become more invested in their own sleep and the best place to make that commitment is in the bedroom. Survey your sleep situation by evaluating the health of your current mattress and bedding. Consider that you spend about a third of your life sleeping, therefore, your mattress and bedding should be the safest and most comfortable sleep system available; it’s an investment in your health and wellness.
Begin your journey today by replacing your worn chemically-treated traditional mattress and bedding with pure, natural, organic bedding and an organic mattress from a quality, trusted brand such as CozyPure®, available at Organic Comfort Zone in Norfolk, Virginia. To learn more about their healthy sleep systems, you can call them toll-free number at 800-229-7571.
Topics: Natural Bedroom | No Comments »
The Comforter - “Mary’s” Story
posted by Rex | October 6, 2009
I spoke with a young lady a few days ago that made me stop and think about my spending habits. She had visited Organic Comfort Zone about a year before and fallen in love with our Amaizing Wool Comforters. She explained that even though she loved our cuddly product and all of the wonderful virtues of the organic components used; she opted for a less expensive synthetic comforter from a department store.
It took less than a week of sleeping under her comforter before she realized her mistake. Every night when she looked at her comforter, she didn’t think about the pretty patterns and colors, she didn’t think about how much money she had saved; all she could think about was the lack of natural and organic elements; the lack of handcrafted tufting and old-world classic design. She told me her remorse was reinforced nightly when she overheated under her polyester covering as she remembered that one of the many benefits of a CozyPure® Amaizing Wool Comforter was that it was temperature regulating, which would help her rest more comfortably without constant “heat-flash” disruptions.
In essence, this charming lady, in an attempt for be frugal and thrifty, had wasted her money on a comforter that was designed for ornamental qualities rather than function. The comforter which she purchased was intended to be used a few seasons and then discarded, unlike the CozyPure® Amaizing Wool Comforter which is created to last generations.
Most of us can relate to what it was like sleeping under a synthetic comforter and how much of a difference it makes to snuggle up with a natural wool all-season comforter. We have all learned how much we can save by buying quality products rather than something that needs to be disposed of in a short period of time. Those of us with allergies have also realized the health benefits of sleeping with natural wool which is mold, mildew and dust mite resistant, rather than with chemically saturated allergen traps.
Her lesson in quality versus frugality should be applied to all aspects of life; quality and substance isn’t cheap, but compared to the amount of benefits – quality is always the best bargain! In fact, in this young lady’s case, the bargain was no bargain because she placed the synthetic comforter in the guest room, and ultimately purchased a CozyPure® wool comforter for her own bed.
Topics: Misc Ramblings, Natural Bedroom | No Comments »
Facebook Fan Contest - Cast your vote!
posted by ~cher | October 5, 2009
You choose the winner! We had a great response (almost 200 entries) and it was hard to narrow it down. Thanks to Organic Comfort Zone fans who sent in entries…. they were fun to read! The top five favorites, selected by OCZ staff, are featured below. Now it’s up to YOU to vote for your favorite (voting ends Oct 12th).
Winner will receive the following CozyPure® organic bedding:
We asked our fans:
“Why a good night sleep is important to me…”
Entry # 1 -
If over the counter sleep was sold,
hour for hour in silver and gold,
How many people would fret and weep?
…because they could not afford to sleep.
This a jingle my grandma used to sing to me to put me to sleep when I was a very little girl. Some of my most fond memories are the ones I have of her singing me this song and talking about why I should “let my eyelids get heavy and think happy thoughts.” As an extremely busy college student, I always make sure to place a strong emphasis on having good sleep and allowing by body to repair itself. I am always explaining to my sorority sisters that a good night’s sleep is the cure to everything!! Getting a good night’s sleep is a NECESSARY part of having a healthy and balanced life. Through a good night’s sleep, a person can have great achievements in the day… After a good night’s sleep, one is reborn.
Entry # 2 -
A morning person, I am not!
Unless a good night’s sleep I got.
Sleeping in comfort without a hitch
Guarantees no morning bitch!
Entry # 3 -
I go to sleep to dream.
Dreams are the things that change the world.
Entry # 4 -
I long to have the kind of slumber
So peaceful and quiescent
That one can awaken with a smile
And feel magnificent
With 3 kids, two jobs and my back so sore
And a million things on my mind
A good night’s sleep is imperative
To ensure I’m feeling fine
Entry # 5 -
A good night’s sleep becomes extra important when you’re a mom like me. I spend my day tackling 3 wild & crazy boys, a husband AND a female cat named Jim Not-A-Him. The biggest thing on my mind after my long day with all these crazy creatures is being able to finally cuddle up to something plush, soft and fluffy - and I’m not talking about my hubby. Hitting the sack is splendid fun, piling into puffiness that feel oh so… good! I dream vividly, tossing & turning all the while so having bedding that contours and moves with me is super duper important. Cradle my head, even my neck - oh Organic Comfort, you’re my friend tonight. Thank you so much for that outrageous comfort… now I can finally rest that achy Fibro-riddled body of mine. To me, sleep really does feel like the best thing on Earth!
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OK folks…. do you have your favorite?
Note: Voting ends October 12, 2009 - 5:00pm EST
Become a FAN of Organic Comfort Zone and learn about our contests!
Topics: Misc Ramblings | No Comments »
