Anyone who has experienced the inability to fall asleep can attest to how insanely frustrating it is. You are tired, mentally and physically, though despite your fatigue, as soon as your head hits the pillow, your thoughts begin racing and you can’t seem to muster any tranquility in order to get some much needed shut eye.
I’ve never really had any serious issues with falling asleep, and I could sleep just about anywhere. Since I’ve been dealing with Lymes disease, though, this has changed for me, and not being able to fall asleep downright blows.
I searched Google to see what I could find pertaining to tips to help with falling asleep. I’m not talking aromatherapy or counting sheep, either; the following information comes from healthline.com, and while I’ve never heard of these tactics, you can bet your bottom I’m gonna give ’em a try.
“4-7-8 breathing method
Mixing together the powers of meditation and visualization, this breathing method becomes more effective with practice. If you have a respiratory condition, such as asthma or COPD, consider checking with your doctor before beginning, as this could aggravate your symptoms.
To prepare, place the tip of your tongue against the roof of your mouth, behind your two front teeth. Keep your tongue there the whole time and purse your lips if you need to.
“Progressive muscle relaxation (PMR)
Progressive muscle relaxation, also known as deep muscle relaxation, helps you unwind.
The premise is to tense — but not strain — your muscles and relax to release the tension. This movement promotes tranquility throughout your body. It’s a trick recommended to help with insomnia.
Before you start, try practicing the 4-7-8 method while imagining the tension leaving your body as you exhale.
As you do this, focus on how relaxed and heavy your body feels when it’s relaxed and in a comfortable state.
“Tell yourself to stay awake
Also called paradoxical intention, telling yourself to stay awake may be a good way to fall asleep faster.
For people — especially those with insomnia — trying to sleep can increase performance anxiety.
Research has found that people who practiced paradoxical intention fell asleep faster than those who didn’t. If you often find yourself stressed out about trying to sleep, this method may be more effective than traditional, intentional breathing practices,” the web page explains.
Here’s hoping some of these work for you, and for me.
ontheedgeofeverything 