You must remember when being a child that due to the excitement you felt before a planned trip, it was impossible for you to sleep. Unfortunately, your sleeping problems are not today the outcome of an expected and desired journey. Problems at work or in the house keep your mind occupied and your body restless. Although you know how important it is for you to sleep during nighttime, you are convinced that you are incapable of entering the stage of dreams, especially when the thought that you must sleep and you cannot crosses your mind. Surpassing your present worries by simply counting sheep may help some but not you. You better come up with a better plan before visiting a doctor’s office.
First, take a deep breath and try to understand that sleep is your body’s time to heal. A healthy body and mind can help you overcome all those persistent problems you have to face during the day. Stop putting on a fight and realize that bed time is your chance to reboot your body’s batteries and revive your mind. Try to relax and always remember that this is a goal you can attain all by yourself.
Check the room’s temperature. The cooler it is the better are the chances you will be able to sleep sooner. Do not try to freeze to death so as to expedite the process, but rather keep the temperature at a totally comfortable level so as to avoid feeling hot, since this is proven to mess your sleeping patterns.
Keep the room dark by closing blinds and curtains. The darker the room is the less possible might be for you to feel the difference between open and closed eyes.
Invest in a comfortable and back supporting mattress. If your bed is too soft or too hard, you will probably experience greater difficulties in falling asleep and you will be waking during the night trying to find a better and more comfortable position, for your legs, back or neck.
Consider buying earplugs and an eye mask. Earplugs can isolate you from the sounds outside -or even inside- your house and an eye mask will help you block out any excess light.
Sometimes, simple things like adjusting the room temperature by turning on the AC or the fan and let a soft music theme play in the background -if you prefer listening to something pleasant- can help.
Additionally, some people suggest you should try to meditate, while others advice you to drink milk or herbal tea made from chamomile.
Keep in mind that experts agree that you should avoid consuming any large portions of food or alcohol or caffeine-based beverages, since the digestion process will take hours before it is complete and alcohol or caffeine are very effective stimulators that can mess your sleeping patterns and keep you awake for hours.
Most importantly, try to maintain a fixed sleep schedule every night, as this routine will help you fall asleep faster so as to get the appropriate amount of rest.
In case none of these suggested tips can help you establish again healthy sleeping habits, you should consider visiting a doctor. Some sleep disorders, like insomnia, require special treatment and medication.