How to Fight Insomnia
Everyone has an occasional sleepless night. Life's daily stressors, major decisions and consuming caffeine too late in the day all contribute to insomnia.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Meditation
- Yoga
- Figs
- Herbal Teas
- Turkeys
- Aromatherapy Soaps
- Lavender Oils
- Marjoram Oils
- Music For Zen Meditation
- Soothing Music
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1
Get out of bed if you can't sleep. Lying in bed sleepless will only make you more stressed.
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2
Read or perform a light chore until you feel sleepy. Then try to go back to sleep - or, if you're feeling stressed or agitated, try some relaxation techniques.
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3
Relax by listening to soft music or a meditation tape. Do yoga or gentle stretching.
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4
Take a hot bath with aromatherapy soaps. Keep the lights dim. Bright light will make you more alert.
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5
Try an herbal sleep remedy to induce sleepiness. Valerian, chamomile, catnip, lavender, lime flower, passion flower, hops or skullcap can be taken in tea or capsule form.
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6
Snack on foods high in tryptophan, an amino acid that can help you relax. These include turkey, bananas, figs, dates, milk and tuna.
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7
Essential oils can also help you relax. Add six to eight drops of lavender or marjoram to a bath, or put four drops of oil on your pillow.
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8
Return to bed once you're feeling sleepy and relaxed.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Room temperature, noise and physical ailments can all contribute to sleeplessness.
Trying too hard to fall asleep can have the reverse effect; you'll stay awake.
If you have any questions or concerns, contact a physician or other health care professional before engaging in any activity related to health and diet. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.