Five Ways to Fall Asleep Easier
Sometimes when I lie down to go to sleep at night I'm out as soon as my head hits the pillow, but other nights I'll toss and turn for what seems like hours. On nights when I can't seem to shut off my brain, I find that these tips seem to help.
- 1
Keep it Cool
Our bodies rest easier when their temperature is right. Try to keep the thermostat set to 65 degrees or cooler. Cotton pajamas that breathe will also help.
- 2
Journaling
Getting all of the negative thoughts and to do list items out of your brain and onto paper is a great outlet to help clear your mind for sleep. Try replacing those thoughts with calming images of a beach or vacation spot where you feel most relaxed.
- 3
Yoga
Simple calming slow stretches while you focus on your breathing will help to calm your mind and ease you into sleep. Try a few slow sun salutations, before a calming child's pose, and ending in bed lying on your back palms up and still.
- 4
Meditation
Emptying the mind can be difficult, especially after a long day. A good place to start is focusing on your breath. When thoughts enter your mind consider them, but try not to attach emotion to them, then release them. Visualization also helps. Whether you focus on a white ball of light or a sunset at the beach, hold onto that image and focus on your breath.
- 5
Stop Annoying Sounds
Block out annoying sounds like a snoring partner or traffic, by using a white noise machine or listening to calming music. Maybe you'd like to fall asleep with headphones on, but yours are too uncomfortable. Check out sleep phones, headphones that are comfortably fit into a head band.