Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Prone to Insomnia? Try These Preventative Steps

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.

There are medications on the market to help those prone to insomnia. Sleep aids are known to provide restful sleep to those having trouble with sleep conditions. Most people don't want to become dependent on medicines and feel the side effects the next morning. Here are some preventative steps:

Avoid consuming stimulants : When it's time for bed, nothing should hinder you from getting some sleep. To that end, avoid anything containing products that will raise your heart rate and keep you alert. This includes soda, alcohol, tobacco, and coffee of course. Alcohol is not a stimulant but it does interrupt sleep patterns.

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 a routine: Establishing a routine is important for everyone but especially for those who suffer from sleep disorders. Doing the same quieting activities at each night will teach your body and mind that it is time to unwind. A warm bath or shower before bed can help you to relax.

Be comfortable: A place that's warm and relaxing will invite sleep. Keep the room dark, if necessary use an eye mask. Try to ensure that your bedroom is quiet and if this is difficult wear ear plugs. Make sure the room temperature is cool and well ventilated. It is worth investing in good quality pillows and bed covers, after all you spend one third of your life in bed.

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: A relaxed body will melt into the sheets of your bed. An aid for that is a relaxation routine. Slow down your breathing. Breathe in slowly, hold it for a few moments, and then let the air out just as slowly. In your mind, imagine the anxiety and exhaustion are drifting away as you float on the sheets. Repeat the technique every night. - 16004

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