I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Influence Central for the National Sleep Foundation. I received a promotional item to thank me for my participation.
Restful sleep. It's something we all want and, more importantly, need. Sleep is a time for our bodies to repair and recharge for the day ahead. Not getting a good night's sleep can lower our immune system and make our time awake cranky and miserable. This I know from experience.
Restful Sleep Isn't as Easy as it Sounds
I've struggled with sleep for many years. And I'm not alone, in the United States, approximately 70 million people are affected by one or more symptoms of insomnia. Of these, an estimated 23.5 million people, roughly 10 percent of the adult population, experience symptoms consistent with the diagnosis of insomnia.
Part of my sleeping issues stems from not getting quality sleep. Once I do doze off, I often find myself waking in various stages of sleep— whether from movement in the bed due to my husband or the cats or from a dream where I'm suddenly wide awake. It's a vicious cycle almost every night.
Because I have trouble with sleeping well, I recently decided to take some action. I've talked to my doctor about a sleeping aid, and we both agreed that it's something to consider for short-term use. I know that I don't want to rely on drugs long term because I think they only mask the problem. Plus, I don't want to be dependent on a pill. I just want to go to sleep on my own!
With that being said, I did discover a few techniques from Beyondtired.org that seem to be working.
Tips for Restful Sleep
Unplug
Unplugging is key. Part of getting restful sleep is preparing your body for sleep. When bedtime rolls around, your body begins to release melatonin. However, if you're on your tablet, PC, or watching television right up until bed, your body isn't preparing for bed by releasing melatonin. You're still in full-on wake mode. Unplugging allows your brain to shut down.
Turn Down the Lights
If you have lamps, use them. About an hour before bedtime, turn the overhead lights off and use lamps instead. This makes an environment more conducive to that release of melatonin and promotes relaxation. And you need to be relaxed in order to get restful sleep.
Keep the Stress Low
Stress is the killer of sleeping well. If you're stressed, try doing something you love to help you decompress. Read a book. Take a late evening walk. Do something to get your mind out of work mode or stress mode.
Keep the Bedroom Cozy
Comfort is both a mental and physical key to getting and staying asleep. Make sure you have cozy sheets, calm colors on the walls, and low lighting. You want a place that welcomes you into its sleepy-time arms. If your bedroom is your sanctuary, it promotes a sense of calm and well-being which helps your body fall into that deep sleep that we all need.
Get More Sleep
Restful sleep is possible! I've been using the tips above, and so far, I've been sleeping more soundly. I know that getting more sleep is easier said than done, but there are resources if you're among 10% of the adult population who suffers from full-on insomnia.
Beyondtired.org is an online resource for individuals with insomnia or anyone who absolutely needs to get more sleep. The website brings to light the journey of four individuals, all from different backgrounds and leading busy lives, working towards getting more sleep. I've viewed all of their profiles and identify most with Jessica, who is a mother that struggles to stay asleep at night. It's important to know that we're not alone, and there are ways to overcome sleeplessness.
For more information on restful sleep and how to get it, visit these informative websites.
Maureen
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Floy
You have very worthwhile points! p.s. good site.
Gladis
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as well as I agree with your points. You have done well
with this.
Tuft
A few more I'd like to add are have a good diet and don't exercise at night time. Night time is a time for relaxing so you can get a good nights sleep, not for drinking soda or exercising.