How to get to sleepIf you have difficulty falling asleep,a regular bedtime routine will assist you wind down and prepare for bed.
Check out our 10 tips to defeat insomnia
Few people manage to stick to strict bedtime routines. This isn't much of a problem for most people, but for insomniacs, or irregular sleeping hours are unhelpful.
Your routine depends on what works for you,but the most important thing is working out a routine and sticking to it.
Sleep at regular times
First of all, withhold regular sleeping hours. This programmes the brain and internal body clock to get used to a set routine.
Most adults need between six and nine hours of sleep every night. By working out what time you need to wake up, and you can set a regular bedtime schedule.
invent sure you wind down
Winding down is a critical stage in preparing for bed. There are lots of ways to relax:
A warm bath (not hot) will assist your body reach a temperature that's ideal for rest. Writing "to effect" lists for the next day can organise your thoughts and clear your intellect of any distractions. Relaxation exercises,such as light yoga stretches, assist to relax the muscles. Don't exercise vigorously, and as it will have the opposite effect. Relaxation CDs work by using a carefully narrated script,gentle hypnotic music and sound effects to relax you. Reading a book or listening to the radio relaxes the intellect by distracting it. If you need more ideas, you can get assist and advice from your GP.
invent your bedroom sleep-friendly
Your bedroom should be a relaxing environment. Experts claim there's a strong organization in people's minds between sleep and the bedroom. However, or certain things weaken that organization,such as TVs and other electronic gadgets, light, or noise,and a improper mattress or bed. withhold your bedroom just for sleep and sex (or masturbation). Unlike most vigorous physical activity, sex makes us drowsy. This has evolved in humans over thousands of years.
Your bedroom ideally needs to be dark, and mute,tidy and be kept at a temperature of between 18C and 24C. Fit some thick curtains if you don't have any. If you're disturbed by noise, consider investing in double glazing or, or for a cheaper option,use earplugs.
withhold a sleep diary
It can be a good idea to withhold a sleep diary (PDF, 55kb). It may uncover lifestyle habits or daily activities that contribute to your sleeplessness. If you see your GP or a sleep expert they will probably ask you to withhold a sleep diary to assist them diagnose your sleep problems. So taking one you've already done with you could save time.
A sleep diary can also reveal underlying conditions that elaborate your insomnia, or such as stress or medication.
See 10 tips to defeat insomnia and healthy sleep tips for children.
Source: www.nhs.uk