Friday, February 6, 2009

7 Ways To Beat Insomnia

By Rose K Taylor

Are you having problems sleeping? Why go to sleep if you know that you won't go to sleep or won't stay asleep all night? It's almost easier to stay awake instead of fooling yourself into thinking you will actually get a good night's rest.

Some struggle with the choice to take or not to take sleep aids to get the rest they need. While sleep aids can give you some sleep if you have the time to devote to sleep, you can end up groggy the next morning. Some don't want to become dependent on medication. If that includes you, here are some suggestions:

Don't consume stimulants: Stay away from tobacco products, caffeinated beverages and alcohol entirely for at least 4-5 hours before bedtime. These products contain stimulants, which increase your heart rate and keep your body alert and awake. Although alcohol is thought to slow your body down, it interrupts your sleep cycle, causing you to wake up before your body has fully rested.

Use your bed for lovemaking and sleep: Conduct work, watch television, and read in other rooms of the house. Leave the bedroom for activities that are traditional to it. Sleep and lovemaking are both relaxing. You want to stay in that frame of mind in your bedroom.

Get moving: Exercising regularly will help your body seek sleep for repairing itself. The American Heart Association recommends getting at least 30 minutes of cardio activity daily.

Establish routine: Work on a bedtime routine until it is second nature. This is a major factor for insomnia sufferers. Your bedtime routine can include relaxing activities like a warm bubble bath and cooling off the bedroom. Find what works for you and get the sleep you need.

Be comfortable: Turn your bedroom into the ultimate relaxation spot. The primary thing to pay attention to is your bed. Choose a comfortable mattress with soft sheets and a pillow conducive to sleep. Keep the air in the bedroom fresh with cool air and good ventilation. If your room is not dark enough wear a mask and possibly ear plugs if there are noises around you.

Don't pressure yourself: Relax and let sleep come to you. Your anxiety will only increase if you let everyone know what you are trying to do. Too much pressure is a stressor that prevents sleep from happening. Turn your thoughts to happy memories or anything that is upbeat and relaxes you.

Relax your muscles: To help your body relax, breathe in slowly, hold for a moment and then slowly breathe out. As you exhale let your body sink down into the bed and imagine your tension drifting away. Perform this breathing routine several times as you lie in bed. - 15252

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