Getting to Sleep Naturally
Insomnia is a common problem that affects many people. Either they can not get to sleep or they can not stay asleep. Lack of adequate sleep can lead to depression, impaired memory, weakened immune system, it can lead to short tempers, make it difficult to concentrate at work, and limit your productivity both at work and at home.
Taking medication is not the answer. Medications can make you hazy and detached when you wake up. Using natural means to improve brain chemistry will provide deep sleep and allow you to awake refreshed and clear of mind.
Insomnia can be successfully treated. The first thing is to make sure that you refrain from consuming to much sugar and caffeine during the day. Blood sugar swings at night will cause a very restless sleep. Most people who wake up a lot during the night have adrenal problems and sugar will make the adrenals more active during the night. People who regularly have lots of energy in the evening suffer from adrenal insuffenciency. A change of diet, and adrenal supplements can help to improve adrenal function. Healthy adrenal glands will give you more energy during the day and allow for fatigue to occur at night, making it easier for you to get to sleep.
A nutrient called 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) may also be very useful to help obtain a deep rest full sleep. 5-HTP elevates serotonin levels which gives the brain a feeling of well-being, thus allowing for longer periods of REM sleep. The more REM sleep that you can get, the more rested you will be in the morning 5-HTP can be very helpful in getting a deep restful sleep.
In addition to the chemical approach these are some useful tips that help to prepare your body for sleep.
Turn down the lights, avoid loud music, and turn off the TV. Stick to a regular schedule by going to bed the same time each night and rising at the same time. Your body will get use to that schedule over time and will be better prepared to sleep at bedtime and awaken in the morning.
Create a good environment for sleep. Make your room dark even to the point of turning luminescent clock faces, VCRs, and such away from you. If you spend more than 20 minutes trying to sleep get up and out of bed. Insomnia can be created by anxiety from not being able to get to sleep somewhat quickly. Reading can be very effective in helping to get to sleep. Daily exercise is one of the best things you can do to help you sleep. But, exercising late in the day can actually contribute to sleeplessness.
By using the proper nutritional supplements, changing your eating habits, and creating a cozy sleep environment you should begin to enjoy deep restful sleep
Posted
by Dr. Steven Felder
