As we get older, sleep becomes a priority because that’s the only time we shut out the world and give our body the rest it needs. However, for some, sleep doesn’t come easy. When falling asleep becomes difficult, they reach out for sleep-inducing remedies like sleeping pills or hypnosis audio recordings. While they may work in the short term, they may damage your health in the long run and negatively change the way you sleep forever.
Additionally, watching television before bedtime has become common practice for many, especially youth. Relying on the telly to make you sleepy may not be ideal, and may, in fact, cut into your sleeping time.
What follows are some useful tips to help you sleep quickly, without pernicious side effects.
1. Go to bed only when you’re sleepy
While this point is obvious, many tend to overlook it. Going to bed when you’re not tired and sleepy will only make it harder for you to catch that blissful sleep. You can achieve fast and deep sleep when your body is ready to shut down for the day. So have a routine and prepare yourself to get into that calm and Zen mood before hitting the bed.
2. Limit screen time
With mobile phones and television taking control of our lives, it’s time to do the reverse. Limit checking your phone or watching TV for long periods right before your bedtime. Put your phone away and turn off the TV at least 30 minutes before heading to bed. It will help your mind to relax from all the thinking and being active.
3. Exercise during the day
This is very important. Sweat it out during the mornings or evenings. It will make your body tired at night and falling asleep will be a breeze. When you don’t exercise and all you do is sit all day in the office, your body won’t reach its fullest potential. When it comes to sleeping, you’re not tired enough to sleep quickly and might end up sleeping later than usual. So incorporate some form of exercise during the day and experience the difference. Not only will this help you sleep better, it will give your efficiency a big boost!
4. Pay attention to your sleeping patterns
Try to ensure you wake up at the same time every day. This will help your body to get into a fixed routine. Moreover, for sound sleep at night, avoid taking afternoon naps because it will interfere with your night sleep.
5. Sleeping practice
Close your eyes. Now stay perfectly still for about 10 minutes. Don’t even move your eyeballs. In a situation like this, your mind starts to send signals to your body to check if it’s awake. You’ll get an occasional itch, or just a strong desire to move. Don’t. You’ll automatically fall asleep before the 10 minutes are over. It takes a bit of self-control, but is a sure way of falling asleep.
