How to Avoid Getting Nightmares

Many nightmares are caused by a traumatic event such as the loss of a loved one, a physical illness, stress or even prescription medication. Follow these tips to sweet dreams.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Journal
• Herbal Teas
• Aromatherapy Soaps
• Yoga Video

1. Relax before bedtime. Meditate, take a hot bath, drink herbal tea or do mild stretching exercises.
2. Clear your mind of worries. Make a list of problems and possible solutions, and then look at them the next day.
3. Avoid watching the evening news, horror movies or movies with graphic violence right before bed.
4. Eat a light snack such as milk or yogurt. Both contain calcium and tryptophan, which can have a relaxing effect.
5. Avoid fatty and spicy foods, which could cause gas and, in turn, nightmares.
6. Give up smoking. Nicotine has been linked to certain sleep disorders.
7. Stop using any drugs that are not essential to your health and well-being.
8. Write down your nightmare when you wake up in a dream journal. Try to figure out how it relates to your life at present to prevent it from recurring.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have frequent nightmares, or if the same theme tends to recur over and over, consider seeing a therapist.
• Prepare for bed by calming your mind and body. Follow a yoga video for a settling stretch and take a hot bath, filled with aromatherapy soaps, that will sooth your mind. As you fall asleep, you'll feel the loss of tension in your muscles and smell the relaxing scents on your skin.
• Consult with your doctor if you suspect prescription medication is the cause of your nightmares.