AD // Sleep. That funny thing we all want but none of us can seem to get! I’ve never had a problem actually getting to sleep. It’s staying asleep that I struggle with. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been waking up 4 or 5 or even 6 times a night. Usually to pee. Or because I’m uncomfortable. I rarely have a full night’s sleep. These tips to help you sleep will help anyone in the same boat!
Photo by Lauren Haden on Unsplash
People have options to make night time more pleasant, like adjustable beds and riser recliner chairs for example which can make a huge difference to your wellbeing associated around sleep. But if things like that aren’t an option for you due to space, money, health or any other reason then you’ll need some alternative tips to help you sleep.
These alternatives can be anything from medication, to sleeping arrangements to herbal remedies – you might consider buying premium kava kava – or more!
I’m not a doctor, of course. So if you’re really struggling, please make sure you contact your GP and get professional help – don’t just listen to some random person on the internet. And I think the same goes for any advice you’re looking for in regards to your health!
Here are 6 tips to help you sleep better every night:
Go herbal
I used to love herbal remedies for my anxiety, particularly Kalms tablets but did you know you can also get Kalms Night? These take the edge off when you most need it: at night and help you relax that little bit more before falling asleep.
They’re not sleeping pills; they’re not medical at all so they won’t knock you out. Everything is natural and healthy and safe to take before you go asleep!
(Although if you’re on other medication, do speak to your GP before taking these)
Related read: 7 Natural Ways To Improve Mental Health
Find the route cause
For me, the reason I started not sleeping through the night is because I have a double bed. As soon as I switched from a single to a double, I stopped sleeping all the way through. For me, I like the restriction of a single bed and not having the option to move around all over the place.
Really think about why you can’t sleep. Think back to when you stopped sleeping properly and dissect it. You might be surprised on what you find.
There might be obvious reasons why you can’t sleep, such as stress. But knowing these reasons gives you more power in being able to help yourself and improve your sleep!
Switch off
Probably the most obvious one and one you’ve heard countless times but switching off your laptop and your phone really can help your brain wind down quicker.
But it doesn’t just end at switching off your phone.
Because even if we’re not surrounded by technology we can still very much be stressed and alert. So really learning to switch off is a mega important point in these tips to help you sleep!
You might want to try some gentle bedtime Yoga or meditation. Maybe journaling helps you unwind or taking a bath and drinking herbal tea.
Related read: How To Switch Off and Relax
Don’t go to bed hungry
Is there anything worse than laying in bed with your stomach rumbling? I know, I know you’re not supposed to eat before you go to bed or you’re not supposed to eat after 8 at night but seriously, if you’re hungry and it’s stopping you sleeping, go and get a damn snack!
A piece of fruit or a cereal bar, just to quiet the hunger until breakfast.
This is something that really affects my sleep. I don’t usually struggle to get to sleep but if I’m hungry, it’s all I can think about and can’t relax until something is done about it!
or angry
You’ve heard it a million times. But don’t go to bed angry. It’s not worth it.
Try and find a healthy way to release that anger before you settle down for the night. If you can resolve the issue with the other person, then do.
But if not you might want to consider a meditation, writing a letter or even a solo shake it out party to safely release that negative energy!
Keep warm
Take a warm shower or bath or have a nice warm cup of tea before heading to bed.
I always find the warmer I am, the more tired I get.
Although you don’t want to be too warm and over-heat, there’s nothing better than being nice and toasty. Grab a hot water bottle to put by your feet as well.
