Serene™

An All Natural Sleep Aid

Suggested Retail Price:$29.95
Your Price:$22.46

Do you or someone you know experience insomnia (sleeplessness)?
Do you need stimulants to stay awake?
Do you crave sweets?
Do you gain weight without excess eating?

If so, you need to read further . . .
Over 70 million Americans suffer from sleeplessness and nearly everyone suffers occasionally from a
sleepless night.

Without adequate sleep, you may experience:

Sleep isn’t a luxury, it is a necessity.
Sleep restores the body and mind and helps us maintain our mental and physical health. Studies have
reported the people who get seven to eight hours of sleep each night enjoy better health and live longer
than people who get less sleep.

Stress is a key trigger of sleep problems.
Cortisol is the body's main stress hormone and is required for many vital purposes, including proper glucose
metabolism, blood pressure, immune function and inflammatory response. In times of stress, either
mental or physical, the body can produce an excessive amount of cortisol. At these high levels, cortisol
can disrupt normal sleep patterns.

We now know that stress and anxiety on a chronic basis can lead to a hypersecretion of stress related
hormones, including cortisol, that have now been correlated not only with sleeplessness, but also with
cognitive performance, suppressed thyroid function, blood sugar imbalances and the subsequent deposition
of body fat, decreased bone density, muscle wasting, heart related problems, and a decrease in
proper immune response.

The main culprit of stress is the inability to fall and stay asleep. The worrying, the anxiety, the constant
thinking about the day’s or tomorrow’s events keep many of us from enjoying a restful night’s sleep.

Insomnia often leads to a cycle of destructive behaviors that worsen health: lots of coffee and soft
drinks to stay awake, certain food cravings, such as carbs or sweets, cigarette smoking, and prescription
medication. Many sleep medications leave us drained of energy and feeling “hung over” the next day.

Common causes of stress related sleep problems
l School or job related stress; family or relationship stress; worry about serious medical conditions; death of
a loved one, etc.
l Shift work - the night shift pits the sleep cycle against the body’ natural rhythm.
l Jet lag - the body is responding to another time zone.
l Noise - a snoring partner, barking dog, loud neighbors, soaring airplanes, etc.
l Environmental discomfort - too hot, too cold, too light, beds too hard, etc.
l Medications - some medications interrupt sleep. Note: Talk with doctor or pharmacists if you are noticing this side effect.
l Sleep disorders - such as sleep apnea, which is interrupted breathing during sleep. Sleep apnea may also increase inflammation in the body and lead to problems such as heart disease.
l Caffeine intake - especially when consumed in the evening hours.
l Tobacco use - nicotine cravings can wake up users three to four hours after they go to bed.
l Alcohol use - deprives users of deep, restorative sleep.

If lifestyle changes don’t seem to work, consider Serene™
Serene™ is a new all natural dietary supplement by New Spirit Naturals to help rebalance an over active central nervous system and relieve stress-related sleep disorders This all natural dietary supplement contains a proprietary blend of all natural extracts that have been used for thousands of years in Japan and China.

Magnolia officinalis extract U.S. patent 6,814,987 & 6,582,735
Known as Hou Po in traditional Chinese Medicine, this potent herb has been used traditionally for treating digestive problems like abdominal distention and diarrhea, and respiratory problems like cough and asthma. It is one of the best herbs in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia for treating digestive gas, bloating, colic, and diarrhea; and, because it dries and resolves "dampness", it is great for lung problems associated with excess mucus, wheezing and cough.

In pharmacological studies, Magnolia officinalis was found to have anxiolytic (anxiety reducing) effects, to balance cortisol production by the adrenal cortex, to inhibit fungal and bacterial growth, to reduce pain and inflammation, and to increase acetylcholine levels in the brain. The effectiveness of Serenetm’s patented, standardized extract has been verified by clinical studies.

Ziziphus spinosa extract
Used for centuries in Chinese medicine to nourish the heart yin, augment liver blood and quiet the spirit for irritability, insomnia, anxiety, and forgetfulness. It possesses calming properties, exerts a relaxing effect on smooth muscle and removes obstructions to the smooth flow of Chi.

Serenetm has been tested in human clinical trials and in-home-use trials (IHUT). The later test is used for determining the efficacy of a product in real life situations.

How does Serenetm work?
Serenetm was developed to address stress related sleep disorders by helping to calm an overactive CNS (central nervous system) while preserving natural muscle relaxation.

Our research shows that stress is a major factor in sleeplessness and restlessness.
In addition, stress plays a major role in weight management:
l Stress activates the hypothalamic/pituitary/adrenal axis, resulting in an increase in cortisol levels.
l Cortisol increases the availability of glucose through hepatic gluconeogenesis and the release of glucose substrates for fat cells and muscles.
l The uptake of glucose is inhibited, which results in hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia.
l The increase in cortisol levels signals the brain that the body is in stress, causing food cravings, especially high fat, high sugar foods.
l These foods, in turn, cause additional stress, thereby fueling the stress-cortisol cycle.
l Eventually, more fat is stored than the body needs, unless sufficient exercise is in place to compensate or the stress is reduced.

Central nervous system (CNS) stimulants have been used to suppress appetite in an attempt to counteract stress induced appetite. This approach not only aggravates the problem, but also has a high abuse potential and several serious side effects that effect cardiovascular and cerebral vascular health. Side effects of CNS stimulants can also include physical dependency, withdrawal problems, slowed reaction time, sedation, weight gain, constipation, dry mouth, confusion, blurred vision, nausea, diarrhea, or headaches.

Products containing Ephedra (ma huang) are an example of CNS stimulants.
Serenetm provides a different alternative that, addresses stress related sleeplessness, restlessness and weight gain by helping to rebalance an over active CNS (central nervous system). The effectiveness of Serenetm may be enhanced by the use of certain vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium and calcium.

How to Use Serenetm
Take one capsule nightly for a minimum of two weeks. Many people achieve the desired effect the first night. Others may need up to two weeks in order to help bring stress hormones into balance. Serenetm is not habit forming and may be taken nightly for an indefinite period of time. Do not take if pregnant or lactating, as clinical tests have not been performed on these subjects. If you are currently taking prescription medications or are receiving medical treatment, you should consult with your physician. Keep out of reach of children.

Code# 2091 Serenetm 30 capsules (veggie)

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Information contained in this bulletin is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. In all case, it is recommended that you consult with your health care professional before initiating a supplement program.

How does Serene™ work?
Serenetm was developed to address stress related sleep disorders by helping to calm an overactive CNS (central nervous system) while preserving natural muscle relaxation.

Our research shows that stress is a major factor in sleeplessness and restlessness. In addition, stress plays a major role in weight management:
l Stress activates the hypothalamic/pituitary/adrenal axis, resulting in an increase in cortisol levels.
l Cortisol increases the availability of glucose through hepatic gluconeogenesis and the release of
glucose substrates for fat cells and muscles.
l The uptake of glucose is inhibited, which results in hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia.
l The increase in cortisol levels signals the brain that the body is in stress, causing food cravings, especially high fat, high sugar foods.
l These foods, in turn, cause additional stress, thereby fueling the stress-cortisol cycle.
l Eventually, more fat is stored than the body needs, unless sufficient exercise is in place to compensate or the stress is reduced.

Central nervous system (CNS) stimulants have been used to suppress appetite in an attempt to counteract stress induced appetite. This approach not only aggravates the problem, but also has a high abuse potential and several serious side effects that effect cardiovascular and cerebral vascular health. Side effects of CNS stimulants can also include physical dependency, withdrawal problems, slowed reaction time, sedation, weight gain, constipation, dry mouth, confusion, blurred vision, nausea, diarrhea, or headaches.

Products containing Ephedra (ma huang) are an example of CNS stimulants.
Serenetm provides a different alternative that, addresses stress related sleeplessness, restlessness and weight gain by helping to rebalance an over active CNS (central nervous system). The effectiveness of Serenetm may be enhanced by the use of certain vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium and calcium.

How to Use Serene™
Take one capsule nightly for a minimum of two weeks. Many people achieve the desired effect the first night. Others may need up to two weeks in order to help bring stress hormones into balance. Serenetm is not habit forming and may be taken nightly for an indefinite period of time.

Do not take if pregnant or lactating, as clinical tests have not been performed on these subjects.

If you are currently taking prescription medications or are receiving medical treatment, you should consult with your physician. Keep out of reach of children.

Code# 2091 Serenetm 30 capsules (veggie)

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Information contained in this bulletin is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. In all case, it is recommended that you consult with your health care professional before initiating a supplement program.

Understanding Sleep

Over 70 million Americans suffer from sleeplessness. In addition, sleep patterns change as we age, especially in those over 50 years of age. Every year, approximately 100 million dollars are spent on overthe- counter sleeping aids by individuals hoping to get a good night’s sleep.

Lack of sleep can cause our daily routine to become stressful. The longer sleep patterns are disrupted, the more the days begin to feel overwhelming.

We know that sleep is necessary for survival and good health, but why it is needed or exactly how it reduces stress is not fully understood. We do know that, without adequate sleep, people experience:

Simple animals become inactive and rest whenever possible. It is believed that the purpose of this rest is to conserve energy and restore the organism.

In higher animals, the high-maintenance, highly developed nervous system requires considerable rest and restoration. As such, most humans have found temporal niches, i.e., some kind of daily cycle of activity and rest. This period of rest is referred to as sleep.

Most likely, evolution has taken advantage of this period of rest and utilizes this time for the removal of waste products from the body and the nervous system, especially the excess buildup of neurotransmitters and hormones between cells. The greater the activity of cells, the greater the build up of waste products.

What Disrupts Sleep?
In light periods, information is transmitted from the eyes to an area of the brain called the suprachiasmatic nucleus, suppressing the release of a hormone called melatonin. Normally, melatonin is released as it becomes dark, signaling our bodies it is time to sleep.

Pathologies of Sleep
The most common sleep pathology is simply lack of sleep. Most studies tell us that the average person needs 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night, yet few seem to achieve this optimal amount.

l Babies, of course, need the most sleep, 6-20 hours a day.
l They are followed by teenagers who typically need about 9 hours.
l Older people need approximately 7-8 hours.
l Sleep requirements differ among different people, just like nutritional requirements differ. Most people tend to underestimate their sleep requirements.
l According to research studies, as many as 80% of college students are seriously sleep deprived. l It is a myth that as we age, we require less sleep.

The results are clear that without adequate sleep:
l We become increasingly irritable.
l Our attention span, our memory, and our ability to concentrate and learn diminish.
l Our chance of accidents increases. Major industrial disasters, including nuclear accidents and massive oil spills, have been officially attributed to errors in judgement caused by sleeplessness in the workplace.
l We are more likely to develop blood pressure and/or heart problems.
l Our immune system begins to lose its effectiveness.
l We tend to look older and actually do age more quickly.
l Ultimately, our lifespan is reduced.

Three major pathologies that can affect our sleep

Insomnia
Occurs in 10 to 15% of the population. Most people will encounter insomnia occasionally, even if they normally do not have a problem falling asleep. It is most likely associated with stress and anxiety, caffeine (found in coffee, tea, chocolate, soft drinks, and many foods), and other stimulants, or the REM rebound (excessive dreaming) effect that comes from consuming too much alcohol or abusing sleeping pills.

Narcolepsy
Only occurs in about 0.5% of the population. This is a neurological problem that causes a person to suddenly fall asleep at odd moments. Narcolepsy requires medical attention, as it can be dangerous and debilitating.

Sleep apnea
Encountered by about 4% of the population. Apnea means “not breathing” for up to 10 seconds or longer during the sleep process. When this happens, the brain wakes up, the person gasps for air, and then returns to sleep. This cycle can occur as many as 600 times per night. After awhile, people with sleep apnea fall asleep during the day or at inconvenient times, such as driving or performing at work. Generally, those with sleep apnea get very little, if any, deep sleep.

Most people with sleep apnea snore. Snoring happens when the palate slips back into the throat and partially blocks the airways. The sound is due to the rapid vibration of the palate. This may be due to genetics or obesity. While snoring is not dangerous, it can develop into sleep apnea.Some medical doctors believe this to be the leading immediate cause of nighttime heart attacks. People with this pathology should seek the attention of their medical doctors. Surgery or a CPAP machine can be used to open the air passages.

The Sleep Cycle
Human sleep has been described as a succession of the five recurring stages PLUS the REM stage. Some scientists call waking a sixth stage.

Sleep quality changes as we transition through each stage of sleep. Although the signals for transition between the stages are mysterious, it is important to know that each of the stages is discretely independent of one another. Each is marked by subtle changes in bodily function. Sleep goes in cycles, first moving quickly into deep, restorative sleep, then moving back toward wakefulness, then deep again, and so on.

Some scientists feel that this movement between wakefulness and deep sleep may have been part of our evolution. Sleep could have been somewhat dangerous for animals. It was important to wake up at times to check on one’s situation or danger. In social animals, it is most likely that one or another individual will be at or near wakefulness at all times to sound an alarm if conditions require. .Sleep stages are predictable cycles with observable intervals that can be monitored and examined clinically with the use of polysmonography and EEG (electroencephalogram).

Waking
The waking stage is referred to as relaxed wakefulness. It is in this stage that the body prepares for sleep. All persons fall asleep with tense muscles, their eyes moving erratically. As they become sleepier, the body slows down, muscle begin to relax, and eye movement slows.

When you are awake or busy (mentally), your brain waves become desynchronized, which mean the brain waves do not show a clear rhythm. They are recorded as small, rapid, and very irregular waves on EEG paper. Underlying these irregular waves is a base rhythm called beta waves, which operate at 13 to 17 cycles per second (cps). If we are very alert, yet momentarily not thinking about anything, those waves become synchronized and develop a beta wave pattern. As you begin to relax and empty the mind, you begin to generate alpha waves (8 to 12 cps). This very pleasant state is something akin to meditation.

Stage 1
In Stage I sleep or drowsiness, the eyes close, but move back and forth erratically. The brain waves begin to slow even more (to about a 50% reduction compared to wakefulness) and become theta waves (4 to 7 cps).

The eyes are closed, but, if aroused, a person may feel as if he or she has never slept. Stage 1 lasts for 5 to 10 minutes.

Our large muscles begin to enter into a state of flaccid paralysis, which means they become relaxed and no longer respond to motion messages from the brain. Sometimes, as we move into this paralysis, our body responds as if we were falling and we experience a sudden jerk called myoclonus.

Stage 2
During stage 2 we develop more and more theta waves. We gently drift into a period of light sleep with our waves showing intermittent peaks and valleys, or positive and negative waves. These waves indicate spontaneous periods of muscle tone mixed with periods of muscle relaxation. The heart rate slows and body temperature decreases. At this point, the body prepares to enter deep sleep.

Stage 3 & 4
In Stage 3 we have very slow delta waves (3 cps or lower). Both Stage 3 and 4 are deep sleep stages, with Stage 4 being more intense than Stage 3. Our body temperature drops and muscles relax. During Stage 4 we are most likely to find night terrors and sleepwalking. Night terrors are periods of extreme emotional arousal that is rarely accompanied by imagery (as in dreams and nightmares).

Occasionally, neurons will fire “accidentally” throughout the night, triggering sequences of firings that can
cause a person in deep sleep to perform routine functions usually reserved for waking, such as getting
out of bed, sleepwalking, getting dressed, making coffee, etc.

Sleepwalking is common among children. There is no paralysis in Stage 4.

After Stage 4, we begin to go back up through the Stages until we reach Stage 1 again. This is often called Stage 1 emergent and exhibits one particularly impressive quality: dreams. Dreams are accompanied by movements of the eyes. Stage 1 emergent is also called REM sleep (Rapid Eye Movement). It’s a good thing that we experience flaccid paralysis here, or we would likely act out our dreams.

Unfortunately for some, the small muscles are not paralyzed, and in Stage 1 emergent, sleep talking occurs. In this stage, you may actually engage someone in a small conversation. Since the fingers are not paralyzed, deaf people often sign during this stage.

Non-REM Sleep
The period of Non-REM sleep (NREM) is comprised of Stages 1 through 4 and lasts for 90 to 120 minutes, with each stage lasting anywhere for 5 to 15 minutes. Surprisingly, Stage 2 and 3 repeat backward before REM is attained. Consequently, a normal sleep cycle has this pattern: Stage 1, 2, 3, 4, 3, 2, REM. In an average night, we may go through four or five such cycles (about 90 minutes each). Normally, each successive cycle is less deep, therefore, most of our deep Stage 4 sleep occurs in the first half of the night.

REM
REM sleep is distinguishable from NREM sleep by changes in physiological states, including its characteristic
rapid eye movements.

l In normal people, heart rate and respiration speed up and become erratic.
l The face, fingers, and legs may twitch.
l Intense dreaming occurs in REM sleep due to heightened cerebral activity.
l Paralysis occurs in major muscle groups, including muscles of the chin and neck.
l REM is called paradoxical sleep since it is a mixture of encephalic (brain) states of excitement and muscular immobility.
l The first period of REM typically lasts 10 minutes, with each recurring stage lengthening. The final period of REM lasts approximately one hour.

The quality and quantity of sleep we achieve each night sets the foundation for the hours of the day where we go about our normal activities, working, driving, operating equipment, and making critical decisions that affect us and others.

Sleep is not a luxury, it is a necessity. It restores our mind and body and helps us maintain mental and physical health.

To help you achieve a more normal sleep pattern, New Spirit Naturals now offers a new, all natural, clinically tested product that can help balance an overactive central nervous system. It is non-habit forming and can be used occasionally or continually when you experience sleeplessness or insomnia.

Information contained in this bulletin is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advise from your physician. This information should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem. You should consult with a health care professional for treatment of any health issue.