A Good Night’s Sleep – The Natural Way

By: http://www.skybluecross.com
There is probably nothing worse than not being able to sleep. Whether you have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, you have probably struggled to find ways to overcome your insomnia. Most people assume that taking sleeping pills are the only way to cure insomnia but contrary to popular opinion, there are natural means to curing insomnia. Although sleeping pills may initially help you fall asleep successfully, almost all are addictive and do not really facilitate a state of restful sleep or most importantly, allow R.E.M. (rapid-eye movement) sleep. If you have never tried a natural remedy for insomnia, it is definitely worth a try to get a restful night of sleep.
1. Regular exercise during the day. We could learn a thing or two from children. Watch them run around the entire day and sleep soundly at night. Start a regular exercise regimen, particularly in the afternoon, which can help facilitate deeper sleep. However, do avoid strenuous exercise within the 2 hours before bedtime, which can have the opposite effect.
2. Avoid daytime napping. Common sense dictates that if you nap throughout the day, you would definitely have trouble sleeping at night. Late afternoon is generally a “sleepy time” for most people. Naps are fine as long as they are limited to about 30-45 minutes and are not taken later than 3 pm.
3. Re-evaluate your diet. The simplest way to cure insomnia would be to change your diet. A diet rich in junk food and caffeinated products, including coffee, tea, chocolate, and some types of sodas will throw off your natural brain chemistry and cause you to lose sleep.
4. Turn off the lights. Our sleep patterns, or circadian rhythms, are closely linked to the presence of light and dark. So, unless you have issues with sleeping in the dark, turn off all the lights in your bedroom when you’re going to bed. Or alternatively, use a dim nightlight.
Adequate sleep and rest is essential for a healthy and active life. If you are still unable to get a good night’s rest after trying these natural remedies, do seek medical attention.