Insomnia can have a huge impact on your life. Sleep is essential, so when Insomnia creeps its way into your life, it can leave you feeling like crap. I have been suffering from insomnia for about three years, (3 very long years). I have tried many natural methods to combat insomnia, and honestly, many of them were pipe-dreams. However, I have found quite a few ways to truly combat insomnia.
This Breathing Technique
I have tried countless breathing techniques in order to help with my anxiety, deal with panic attacks and attempt to combat my insomnia. There is only one that I have noticed a difference with when using. I also must add, I was incredibly shocked that this breathing technique really worked. Try it and see if it helps you as well.
- Inhale slowly for 8 seconds
- Hold breath for 7 seconds
- Exhale slowly for 9 seconds
- Repeat
Lavender
The scent of lavender truly does help with my anxiety and somewhat aids with my insomnia. So, I went a bit overboard. On my nightstand, I have lavender hand lotion and lavender essential oil. I also purchased lavender Epsom salts, lavender candles, lavender dryer sheets – and a whole lot of other lavender scented items. I also plan to pick up a lavender plant for my bedroom. Here are some ways to bring this insomnia combating scent into your bedroom:
- Diffuse Lavender Essential Oil
- Put Lavender Dryer sheets in your pillow case
- Put Lavender Lotion on hands before Bed
Reading in Bed via Kindle
For whatever reason – this works the best for me when combating my insomnia. I think it may be the dim light of the Kindle, (that doesn’t disturb my partner at all), or maybe just reading while lying down helps ease me into a tired state. Whatever it is, I’m beyond glad that I tried this! This has been my #1 tool to combat my insomnia and it hasn’t failed me yet.
Below is exactly what I have and I love it!
Bedtime Tea
I’m not a huge fan of chamomile tea but I have found 2 teas that I don’t mind the taste of. On particularly restless nights, I drink a cup before bed and have noticed a difference. Plus – tea is really healthy! It’s a win-win.
Stick to a Routine
Going to bed and waking up at the same time everyday does seem to mildly aid in combating insomnia. Routines, rituals and schedules also help with productivity and overall health. It’s a good idea to get into a routine that works for you and stick to it the best you can.
Exercise Daily
Exercising daily is a good idea for overall health. There are so many reasons to exercise. It will help you combat your insomnia by tiring you out so you are better able to fall asleep. Try various methods of exercise, (Cardio, Pilates, Yoga ect.) and do the ones you like the best.
Talk to Your Doctor
I am prescribed a medication for my insomnia, as it became quite severe. However, I had horrible reactions to most of the medications we tried. Finally, we were able to settle on a light insomnia medication that hasn’t given me any side effects. Insomnia can severely impact your life and when it gets to that point – you need to discuss it with your doctor. There are many dangerous side effects of sleep deprivation. So, if you have tried all the natural remedies and none seem to be consistently working for you, you need to discuss it with your doctor as soon as possible!
Final Thoughts:
Insomnia is the most common sleeping disorder among Americans. Possible side effects of insomnia include: decreased work performance, higher risk for depression & anxiety and a higher likelihood of road accidents.
Insomnia can be a serious condition and should be taken seriously. Sometimes, it takes a variety of methods used together in order to combat insomnia. For me, I use the methods I discussed and along with my doctor, found a medication that works for me.
Experiment with various methods and find one that works for YOU. Also, please discuss this condition with your doctor if it begins to negatively impact your life.
It is truly an awful feeling to be lying awake at night, overthinking and unable to find any way to go to sleep. I truly hope these tips can help you as they have helped me 🙂
If you have any methods that have personally helped you combat insomnia, please let me know in the comments! Also, please don’t forget to share.
Disclaimer: I am not a doctor and have simply shared the tips for combating insomnia that have worked for me, personally. Please seek the care of a physician if symptoms continue.
