Channel Button

There are 31 articles on this title. You are reading the article ranked and rated #4 by Helium's members.

Health & Fitness   >

Sleep Disorders

How to cure insomnia

Insomnia affects a large number of people, and can arise for a variety of reasons. It is always a good idea to seek the advice of a physician for treatment of symptoms that affect your health. There are also a number of things a person can try at home to get relief from insomnia. Changes in sleep pattern usually occur over a few days or weeks. When trying any of the techniques described in this article, give yourself a week or two of steady effort before deciding something isn't working for you. It may just take time for your body to adjust to the changes you are trying to make.

1. Stop trying to fall asleep

Sometimes, trying too hard to fall asleep makes it less likely to happen. Sleep is not born of effort, but of relaxation. Trying to force yourself to fall asleep can make bedtime seem stressful instead of relaxing. Remind yourself that being upset about losing sleep isn't going to help you sleep any better.

2. Exercise

Get as much physical exercise as you are able to during the day. If you go to bed tired, it will be easier to fall asleep.

3. Wind down before bed

Give yourself at least a half hour of very little physical or mental activity before bed. Watch TV, read a book, do something relaxing. This way you will not go to bed still revved up from the day's activities. Try to watch or read a story that is not too exciting. Remember, the point is to reduce excitement.

4. Stick to a schedule

Keeping a scheduled bedtime makes it easier for your body to "learn" when it should be sleepy. Think of mealtimes. Most people feel hungry at noon because their bodies have learned to expect food at that time. Sleep patterns work in the same way.

5. Keep a "worry book" in a nearby room (not in the bedroom)

Instead of lying in bed with thoughts racing through your head, write down all the things you need to worry about in a notebook before you prepare to go bed. This way, they will be there to worry about in the morning. Anything you need to remember will already be written down. If you begin to worry while in bed, get up and write down your new worries. Don't take them to bed with you.

6. Remember, you probably can't fix it until morning

Most problems can't be fixed at two in the morning, so don't worry about it. Worrying will be wasted effort. Plan to worry about things and work towards getting tasks done during the day.

7. Beds are only for two things

Any other activities should be done in a different room. A subconscious link


Below are the top articles rated and ranked by Helium members on:

How to cure insomnia

  • 1 of 31

    by David Charles

    Insomnia is a complex problem that can involve the mind(thoughts), the brain and the rest of the body. In general in... read more

  • 2 of 31

    by Sandy aka Mom

    I believe everyone has experienced sleeplessness at some point in their life however; there is a difference between t... read more

  • 3 of 31

    by Kevin Schwendeman

    I can't sleep. I just can't get comfortable. What is that noise? If I fall asleep right now I'll get just enough. ... read more

  • 4 of 31

    by Kayanne Nelson

    Insomnia affects a large number of people, and can arise for a variety of reasons. It is always a good idea to seek t... read more

  • 5 of 31

    by Neal Acito

    According to the National Sleep Foundation, 58% of adults have insomnia at least more than once a week. Getting rid ... read more

View All Articles on:
How to cure insomnia

Add your voice

Know something about How to cure insomnia?
We want to hear your view. Write_penWrite now!

What do you know about?
  • Tell us! Get published today.
  • Reach millions.
  • Many ways to earn.
Join Helium Today

Already a member? Log in.

Helium Debate

Cast your vote!

Bipolar disorder: Illness or excuse?

Click for your side. Must be logged in.

91857

Featured Partner

A Day of Hope

A Day of Hope has partnered with Helium, giving you the chance to write for a cause. Browse A Day of Hope's fea...more

What is Helium? | User Guide | Community | Link to Helium | Privacy | User agreement | DMCA

Helium, Inc.
200 Brickstone Square Andover, MA 01810 USA