What are some ways to make yourself fall asleep?

Question

For the past few weeks, I've been unable to get to sleep or even stay sleeping. It's really taking a tole on me as well; I am physically exhausted and very weak...

I've been getting about 2 hours of sleep every night, sometimes none, sometimes a little more, but its nowhere near as much sleep that I need.

Does anyone have any tips on how to make yourself fall asleep?

(I have tried over the counter natural sleeping aids, but I don't think they help.)

Answer 1

smell an onion

Answer 2

Physical exertion during the day is a common recommendation. Establish a regular sleep-wake cycle to work your bodies natural rhythm. Bed at same time, wake at same time. Don't use your bed for anything but sleeping. Milk helps the body produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps facilitate sleep.  I think the best way, naturally, would be to lie down in complete darkness and either silence or soothing music, a fountain, whatever sooths you. Just lay there with your eyes closed. The lack of light being transmitted to your eyes causes something called the SCN to direct the release of melatonin, the 'Dracula' hormone that helps you sleep.

Answer 3

I had a sleeping problem a few years ago and I finally had to give in and go to the doctor. He put me on some meds and of course it helped a lot. I took the meds for around a year and then went off of them and I'm much better now.

Answer 4

count sheep

Answer 5

Ditch the caffeine for starters.

Then, ditch the sugar - especially late in the day.

Then, ditch the television, computer, and any fluorescent lights at least 90 minutes prior to wanting to sleep. The flicker in those things affects the brain waves through the follow effect, winding people up tight.

Then, when you go to bed, let your mind wander - from body part to body part, looking for the one that's most relaxed. Other ideas will come in, and that's OK, just keep going back to your body and sorting for which part is most relaxed.

As you do this, your body will change, and the 3rd will become the 1st and the 1st will become the 5th most relaxed. Just keep sorting and sorting and re-checking and re-checking which one is the most relaxed, second, third, fourth...

And, keep sorting them until you notice which ones are becoming numb or tingly or prickly first - That means they are falling asleep. Keep sorting that as they fall asleep one at a time.

Your mind will finally be asleep soon.

Answer 6

Don't exercise or eat for at least two hours before you sleep. Limit sugar especially at night. Sip something warm to drink, try warm milk although it's pretty disgusting in my opinion. Read a book. Listen to quiet, melodious music.