Cure 101: Insomnia

It's tough when you're up most of the time staring at the clock.

Dearest readers,

Recently, a viewer asked me to do a cure 101 on insomnia, so I've collaborated some tips on how to effectively fight against it!

Note: I am by no means a doctor and information on this page may be incorrect or subject to more research. Insomnia should not be treated lightly. In some cases, it could be a underlying issue that needs medical attention. Always seek help from a doctor first before turning to the internet for information. These tips should be used with caution in conjuction/ or with approval by your doctor.

1. Play some soft, soothing music that will lull you to sleep. There are many CDs designed for that very purpose. Some are specially composed music, others simply have sounds of waves rhythmically breaking, or the steady pattern of a heartbeat. Some will lead you to sleep with a combination of music, voice and other soothing sounds.

2. Drink a glass of warm milk 15 minutes before going to bed will soothe your nervous system. Milk contains calcium, which works directly on jagged nerves to make them (and you) relax.

3. Drink Herb tea if you don't like milk—or are avoiding dairy products—try a cup of hot camomile, catnip, anise or fennel tea. All contain natural ingredients which will help you sleep. Most health food stores will also have special blends of herb tea designed to soothe you and help you get to sleep.

4. Try melatonin, but carefully. Some people find it helpful to sleep, however there are cases of people who, on the contrary, disrupts sleep. There is at present considerable confusion as to the usefulness and appropriateness of melatonin. Therefore it is advisable to consult a health professional (naturopath, medical doctor or naturopathic) versed in the subject.

5. Eliminate or reduce caffeine and smoking. Almost everyone knows that caffeine makes it difficult to sleep, what many do not realize is that smoking near bedtime can disrupt sleep and cause us to wake up several times at night . Studies have shown that smokers show a decrease from the deepest stage of sleep, ie one in which delta waves predominate. Smoking also causes congestion in the airways and inflammation on mucous membranes. This makes the air flow is impeded, causing problems similar to those of sleep apnea.

6. Try eating some sleeping pills. I suggest Natures Way Sleeping Pills. OTC sleep aids are meant to be used for short term insomnia only. Sleep experts generally advise against the use of over-the-counter (OTC) sleep aids because of side-effects, questions about their effectiveness, and lack of information about their safety over the long-term. Also be careful not to overdose.


xxx

Goodluck