How to Soothe Insomnia (Starting Tonight)

First off -- what is insomnia? After one night of lost sleep can you call yourself an insomniac? Well, not exactly. 

The sleep disorder includes difficulty falling asleep, frequent waking in the night, waking up earlier than needed, and having a sleep that is not rejuvenating.

These are the starting signs, but this lack of proper sleep can take a toll on your body and can cause an increase in your irritability, weight, blood pressure, pain and mental illness. It can also decrease your immune system functionality, ability to focus, and overall motor function.

Whether you do not want to take pills, do not have time to see your doctor this week, or are just looking for some natural ways to sleep better, the list below on how to combat insomnia starting tonight: 

Your body is your sleep temple  

Get active -- go to the gym, do yoga in your bed, or even take a walk outside (preferably when it's sunny, the rays will help you sleep too). Set up a nightly routine where you brush your teeth, wash your face, drink (de-caffeinated) tea, or do any other self-care activity that gets you in the mood to snooze. 

Fill your lungs

There are many ways to meditate. You can do yoga, get some help from a guided meditation podcast, or even just simply think about every breath you take while you are lying horizontally on your pillow. This will help you fall asleep faster, and ease anxieties and stress that may have been preventing you from falling asleep in the first place.

Off your mind, onto paper

Sometimes, no matter how much meditation you do, thoughts, ideas and sometimes even strokes of genius come to your mind while you are begging for shut-eye. Rather than continuously letting these thoughts populate your mind, try writing them down, to release the thoughts and ease your mind.

Sounds asleep

Another way to quiet that busy mind is to focus on the thoughts of another, or trying to distract yourself with some calming music. Play a podcast (one that won't get you too excited), or some tunes that won't make you want to bust out a dance move. There are even some great audio-books or hypnosis tracks out there designed to help you drift off naturally!

Try some of these easy insomnia-fighting techniques tonight for a better sleep, cause why wait to feel the effects of a good rest? 

_____________

Sources

https://www.onemedical.com/blog/get-well/how-to-relieve-insomnia-without-medication-part-1

https://www.bodyandsoul.com.au/mind-body/a-sleep-expert-reveals-6-ways-you-can-beat-insomnia-naturally/news-story/77c52ca45179dc6cb018f5843d68adec

https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-sleep/insomnia-home-remedies