Share your triumphs and struggles with getting enough sleep and get some insight from people who share your struggle
What Helps Me Sleep
I had sleeping problems for months. I had tried a few over-the-counter sleep aids but was afraid of becoming dependent on them. The first few days without sleep aids was rough. I tried some natural alternatives, like warm milk and melatonin. They seemed to work pretty well, but I found something that works even better for me: long walks. I usually jog in the morning, but I've been taking some joy-walks around the neighborhood, through the parks, sometimes around a pond near my house. When I get home, my endorphins are pumping and my head is clear and sleep comes naturally.
I've had great experience with meditation. Perhaps that's why your long walks work with you as well. Meditating before I go to sleep sets all of my thoughts into neat little boxes that I can store away so my stress doesn't keep me up all night. I started with guided meditation because I just couldn't make myself "think of nothing." Now i'm a pro!
Some activities will do the opposite for different people. For example, some people find chewing gum wakes them up, while others do it to calm down. Peppermint is often used to wake people up, so I understand that use of chewing gum, but others might chew so their nerves have something to pay attention to instead of whatever is bothering them. This might be the case with Aubrey and Healthnut. Aubrey is using it to stimulate or facilitate her, while Healthnut is using it to relax and clear his head. Both great uses of exercise and movement therapy.
My jogs in the morning, for instance, help me wake up, Aubrey. I totally know what you mean. But at night, I take my time, and try to focus on deep breathing while I'm walking. I tune in with nature and let it clear my mind. But I suppose it is different for different people as well.
I can only sleep if my room is freezing and I have a big blanket that I'm wrapped up in!
I've heard of sleeping with a lowered temperature does help you fall asleep faster naturally, Lovecat1. Also, there are aroma therapy tips for sleeping that involve lavender and chamomile scents. Sometimes if I'm having trouble sleeping, I try a little EFT/TFT. It can really resolve some issues that are keeping you awake.
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