Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Preventative Steps to Help You Fall Asleep Faster

By Rose K Taylor

If you are prone to insomnia, is it easier to stay awake and keep busy or like in bed waiting for sleep to take you away? Sleeplessness can be discouraging night after night when the problem seems to persist.

Sleep aid medications offer a full night's sleep, but many come with side effects including a groggy wake-up process the following morning. If you do not want to rely on medication to fall asleep, here are some steps you might take to help prevent insomnia and get some much needed rest:

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.

Your bed is only for sleeping or lovemaking : Your body becomes accustomed to your bed as its resting place when the bed is used for sleep or lovemaking. Reading, watching TV or working in bed will teach your body that your bed is not where you sleep, but a place where your mind is active rather than relaxed.

Get moving: Exercise gives you a relaxing sleep afterwards. At least thirty minutes of exercise is recommended on most days of the week according to the American Heart Association. You are bound to see a pattern of better sleep with regular a regular exercise program.

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.

Get in a comfortable position : You'll get your best night's sleep when you are comfortable. Work to turn your bedroom into a sleep haven. Use an eye mask or earplugs to shut out all light and all noise in the bedroom. As far as your bed itself, invest in a proper mattress, pillows, and bedding that feels good. We sleep for 33 percent of our lives, we deserve the best.

Don't put pressure on yourself:: Telling yourself over and over that you must fall asleep right now will only heighten your stress and prevent you from drifting off. Instead of pressuring yourself, think about something relaxing such as a vacation or happy past events.

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.

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