What's the Answer to Insomnia?
By Genevieve Cunningham
Insomnia is an incredibly frustrating phenomenon. We're supposed to sleep. We have to in order to stay alive. So when we lose the ability to sleep, our bodies and minds don't like it. We become sore and fatigued and extremely irritable. We suffer consequences all day and all night. But perhaps the most frustrating part of all is that finding a cure for insomnia can be difficult and time consuming. Besides pills and various tea options, not much else seems to be recommended. Luckily, treating insomnia can be done. It will take time and effort, but it's possible to turn your habits around. To get you moving toward better sleep, take a look at these tips to try tonight.
Create a Routine
Routines are key. This is especially true first thing in the morning and last thing in the evening. When we use routines, both body and brain become accustomed to it. As we get familiar with it, the wind down process begins to happen without conscious thought. Include whatever you like in your routine -- whether that's a book, exercise, a shower, whatever -- and make it as calming as possible. Then commit and give it time to see results.
Adjust Your Environment
An environment that is distracting or uncomfortable won't be sleep inducing. Take a look at your sleeping environment. Is it dark? Comfortable? Busy? Loud? Make adjustments where necessary -- even if that means spending a little money. The more comfortable and calm your environment, the more likely your body and brain are to relax and allow sleep to happen on a regular basis.
Lower Stress
Stress is terrible for sleep. It can be a real challenge to keep stress levels low, but it's crucial. To do it on your own, make sure you have exercise, regular moments in nature, and a hobby in your routine. All of these can calm the nerves and lower stress. Of course, if you can't handle it on your own, seek out a professional's help to get stress under control.
See a Doctor
If you just can't seem to make progress, don't be afraid to reach out to a professional. Tell a doctor about your troubles. They may have suggestions that actually work. Suggestions that induce sleep and allow you to finally get some rest. If you're hesitant, try other natural remedies first, but don't completely discount the help of a doctor.
Sleep isn't something to play around with. We need it. If you're not getting enough, it's time to change. Use these tips to improve your sleep, boost your health, and feel better than ever before in your life.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Anaheim, Calif.