Insomnia can drive you crazy! Tossing and turning night after night may leave you ready to pop some pills for some quick relief, but do yourself a favor and think twice. Why not adjust your diet and lifestyle first and see if you can improve your sleep patterns the natural way? Natural sleep remedies are a combination of lifestyle, dietary and activity changes that help you to set the scene for a good night's sleep. They may also include some herbal or homeopathic remedies but avoid any prescribed pharmaceutical drugs or chemical intervention. Here are some natural sleep remedies designed for getting a head start on the elusive Sandman:
Take Control of Your Life
* Stop worrying at night. You can't change anything at 3 a.m. that you can't change at 8 a.m. - after a good night's sleep!
* Sort out any niggling problems well before bedtime and make a list of 'to do's' for the morning. Then put it all away and relax before you put the lights out.
* If you can't sleep at all, you may be suffering from depression and anxiety or both. This may have been brought about by problems in your marriage, with your children or because of grief and mourning. Consult a therapist to help you sort through your feelings. Talking over your problems with a concerned listener is one of the best natural sleep remedies.
* Likewise, if you have any physical problems that are keeping you awake like heartburn, leg cramps or headache, seek treatment for them immediately. Don't suffer in silence. There is something you can do to alleviate the pain that is keeping you awake.
* If you work shifts your circadian rhythms may be the problem. Ask for a day shift transfer if possible or change jobs if the problem is severe. Shifts that change clockwise are easier for the body to adjust to than shifts that change anti-clockwise.
* Remove that television from your bedroom or stand firm about turning it off. Tape your favorite shows and watch them the next day but never leave it on all night.
* Never place your office desk or any other work station in your bedroom.
* Clean your bedroom and resolve to never let it become cluttered again. Peaceful colors and minimal furnishings will add to a sense of serenity. Use candles and calming scents as natural sleep remedies and focus on relaxation.
* If fights over the covers are a problem between you and your partner invest in separate and appropriate duvets for each of you.
* Provide some temperature control for your bedroom. It should not be too hot or too cold. Control your environment, don't let it control you.
* Turn your clock face away from you so you won't become aggravated as time marches on and you still can't sleep.
* Establish a regular bedtime routine. Take a warm (not hot) bubble bath or a warm shower and avoid any stimulating activities or intense discussion before bed. Water is soothing and warmth relaxes tension in the muscles and is one of the most effective natural sleep remedies.
