How to Sleep When You Are Not Tired
You go to bed early, or for a nap, but for whatever reason, you're not tired or sleepy. There are many things you can do to fall into sleep mode more easily, but this article will focus on a few simple, quick fixes that will nudge your body into slumber modes when you're not feeling tired.
Steps
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1Adjust the temperature. The temperature in the room should be slightly cooler than what's comfortable for you. A slight drop in temperature induces sleep. [1] But don't let yourself get too cold, especially your feet; cold feet can be disruptive to sleep, so put on some socks!
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2Adjust the lighting. If you prefer a completely dark room, cover all lights such as digital alarm clocks, or any other electronic device in your bedroom that has a light on it. If you prefer to sleep with dim lighting, wear an eye mask or lower your lights until you are comfortable enough to sleep. Do not sleep with your lights on, as this disrupts sleep and makes it hard to become tired and relaxed.[2]
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3Adjust the sound level. Consider putting on some white noise (sound machine, fan blowing etc.), which has been shown to make people fall asleep more quickly. Also, people find the ticking of a watch or clock soothing. [3] If you prefer everything quiet, turn off anything that causes noise.
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4Adjust your sleeping position. Keep your back straight, and make sure that your neck isn't resting too high or too low. Avoid sleeping on your stomach, as forcing your head to one side is hard on the spine and neck. If you sleep on your side, put a narrow pillow or rolled-up towel between your knees to keep your hips in a neutral position.
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5Make your bed comfier. Swap your over or under-stuffed pillows for the ones you keep in the guest room. If your mattress is lumpy, flip it over or cover it with a foam pad or other blankets.
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6Recreate boredom. This varies from person to person, but whatever that activity is, it should lull your brain, not engage it. Slow, calming music lends itself well to this. Reading something that is completely uninteresting to you is good as well. Some types of puzzles or games may work as well, such as Sudoku or Solitaire.
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7Perform breathing exercises. Try abdominal breathing, yogic pranayam, or a one-minute breathing exercise.
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8Visualize something relaxing and repetitive. For example, think of small, warm waves washing over your body at regular intervals to coincide with your breathing. Meditate to calm yourself and clear your head. If you are anxious about something in particular, visualize overcoming your fears.
- Think of one of the most beautiful and calming places you have ever been to (a clear stream of running water in a field of wildflowers in the mountains to a peaceful lake). This should help you relax. (If this makes you want to urinate, think of an alternate place.)
Stretch and Exercise
Tips
- Lay still and relax. Close your eyes, and try to clear your mind.
- Use the bathroom to make yourself more comfortable and prevent having to get back up any time soon.
- Surround yourself with calm, peaceful things that may help you slow down.
- Take a nice, warm bath before you go to bed.
- Have a warm beverage about an hour before you go to bed. Avoid coffee or anything with caffeine. Warm milk is usually a good choice.
- Try too keep your body perfectly still and sleep in a comfortable position.
- Clear your mind of all thoughts, try to think of positive memories and visualise calming scenes.
- Sleep with a large pillow or stuffed animal, because no one likes to sleep alone.
- Daydream. It will get your mind off of anything stressful or worrisome and just let you drift off into whatever world you create.
- Don't have any electronics near you to distract you (unless you are using it to listen to music or white noise).
- http://www.wikihow.com/Sleep-When-You-Are-Not-Tired
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