Throughout our lifetime it is surely inevitable that we will each battle with insomnia at one time or another. Insomnia – the ability to fall asleep or stay asleep – can have disastrous ramifications; ongoing sleep deprivation can interfere with daily life making us unable to concentrate and even instigating far greater health concerns such as depression.

For those who suffer nightly, curing insomnia can mean the difference between days spent in an exhausted fog and a productive, healthy life. Subsequently, there are more and more products hitting retail shelves that claim to hold the secret for curing insomnia. And while there are many fantastic prescription and over-the-counter medications that will help you sleep in the short term, there are alternatives that are worth trying beforehand.

Curing insomnia may begin with simply making some changes in your bedtime routine. It may be of benefit to build new habits surrounding sleep. Try going to sleep and waking up at the same time every day to encourage your body to adopt this schedule. Make your bedroom a haven for sleep; don’t watch television or read in bed. Instead, come to bed when you are ready for sleep. Make your bedroom dark and comfortable and use music or white noise to help soothe yourself to sleep.

In the spirit of curing insomnia, you may even begin to implement some pre-sleep rituals as well. Eliminate exercise, alcohol, and heavy foods prior to bed; try stretching, deep breathing, or simple yoga poses; meditate for a period of time before bed; or sip some caffeine-free tea. If you find that you’re unable to fall asleep, then leave your bed until you feel sleepy enough to try again. Do not make your bed a place you associate with tossing and turning.

For ongoing sleep issues, it’s important to work towards curing insomnia even during your waking hours. Limit alcohol and caffeine during the day – both of which can work to interrupt sleep during the night.

Curing insomnia may take some trial and error. If you find that even after some lifestyle adjustments that you are continuing to struggle with sleep, then it’s best to see your doctor.

By: Michelle Bery

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