Sleep Support – tiffany nicole fletcher

There is so much going on in the world, both on a global level and in the nitty-gritty of our daily lives. It can be a challenge to find ways to manage the stress of it all and remember the light and resilience we carry within.

I’ve long known that mindfulness practice is a powerful way to promote calm and reduce the effects of stress, but I recently learned the fascinating and life-changing details of just how it can achieve this.

I had the wonderful opportunity to speak with Dr. Kirk B i ngaman, Fordham University professor of mental health counseling and spiritual integration, at Trinity Church Wall Street about anxiety (both personal and collective) and how mindfulness practice can help us manage it by rewiring the brain over time – toward resilience, non-reactivity, steadiness, and positivity. We discussed mindfulness practice, neuroplasticity, and how we can access calm and peace in daily life. Dr. Bingaman gave a presentation on these topics before our chat.

Click the image below to view the event recording.

*Tiffany Nicole Fletcher and Dr. Kirk Bingaman in conversation at Trinity Church Wall Street*

Did you know that the innate orientation of our brains is anxiety and hypervigilance?

This ancient design served an evolutionary purpose, as a way to help our ancestors anticipate threats and survive in the face of mortal danger a long time ago. It has helped humans survive through the ages.

Most of us no longer face the threat of being killed by a tiger, yet we all still carry a brain that is constantly anticipating danger and pain. In his book, The Power of Neuroplasticity for Pastoral and Spiritual Care (which I highly recommend!), Dr. Bingaman shares about the ways that mindfulness practice can help us steer the brain toward the positive:

CHAMOMILE :: Matricaria chamomila – her medicine is often taken for granted.

Because we think we know her so well, we dismiss her power. She sits in the cabinet, in that box of chamomile tea you overlook, hearing you complain about things she could help you with: how you can’t sleep at night, how wired and anxious you are, how you’re feeling a little low again today. She longs to share her sweet apple-scented fragrance with you, give you some of her delight and comfort.

Tasting the gentleness in her, we underestimate her strength. Still, she shines of the sun, bright with healing force. She is a lifter, the friend who always has enough joy bubbling over to give you some too; her light brightens your life when you’re feeling down.

I’ve been aided by chamomile for sleep support, anxiety relief, mood lifting, and digestive support. It’s very helpful for easing digestive issues that coincide with – or are triggered by – stress or anxiety, such as IBS. For supporting sleep or reducing anxiety, it blends well with lemon balm or lavender.

For more on chamomile as a medicinal plant, I invite you to check out this guide by the American Botanical Council.

This article is for educational purposes only. This information is not intended to prevent, treat or cure any disease.

VIDEO: Learn How to Calm the Anxious Mind (Event Recording)

Click the image below to view the event recording.

The Power of Plants: Chamomile’s Gentle Strength