Trouble sleeping.... :(?

Question

I get up at about 5:00am - 6:00am every morning and try to go to bed at about 9:00pm - 10:00pm.....however it takes me ages to get to sleep and if I try going to bed earlier, I can't sleep! I end up staying up until midnight. How do I fix this?

Sometimes I feel so incredibly tired I can almost go to sleep right there and then but JUST can't make it.... :S

Answer 1

Hi Sam,

I used to have the same problem! Here are a few drug-free solutions that are almost guaranteed to work:

#1:Use reverse psychology - When you're lying in bed, first be sure that your room is dark, cool, and QUIET. Don't look at the clock and don't think about falling asleep. Just lie there and close your eyes. Keep telling yourself (in your mind) to NOT fall asleep. You'll start to feel drowsy. Keep telling yourself, "DO NOT FALL ASLEEP!" .....you'll be out in ten minutes! Fighting to sleep just doesn't work.

#2: In your QUIET and dark room, while your lying in bed, count by multiples of seven, in your head. If that gets too easy, count by eights or nines. This takes your mind off of the events of the day and takes your mind to one place. You're already tired --- you'll get tired of counting and configuring. It works great. Just be sure to NOT think about the fact that you are trying to sleep. Keep it simple. Don't read books or watch TV before bed. These activities only stimulate your mind. Take a warm bath. Do NOT eat anything after 6-7:00 pm. Lay off the soda and caffeine. Don't drink a lot of fluids (if any) before going to bed.

#3: Try essential Lavender oil. Place just two drops on either wrist. Rub your wrists vigorously together. Lavender is naturally calming; it's also great for headaches too. You can also apply a few drops of Lavender oil to a bandana or an old soft cloth and place it on your pillow and inhale the aroma. Just keep the oil away from your eyes. If you put any oil on your hands, wash your hands with soap and water. I apply the oil directly to my wrist(s). Essential oils go a long way! Use sparingly ----just a few drops will do. Aromatherapy is GREAT!

You can find essential oils in any natural/health food store. Chamomile tea, is another great natural relaxer (it's great for  stomach aches too). You can find chamomile tea in any store. Just don't drink a big cup right before bed. Have a cup an hour or two before bed.

Sweet dreams my friend ......z-z-z-z-z-z-z-z-z-z

Lori Ann