Tuesday, February 26, 2008

How To Deal With Insomnia

Are you an insomniac? Don't underestimate the dangers of insomnia. If you're overweight, sleep apnea could be the cause.

At night, keep away from bright light. In the morning, open the shades and go out for a walk to tell your brain, "This is the start of the day." OTC medication sleep aids is worth trying, but if you suffer for more than 3 weeks, see a doctor.

Stress often plays a role in insomnia. Don't exercise or eat at the end of the day, and avoid or limit caffeine, alcohol and nicotine. A warm bath can help too. Also, try taking 1,000mg of calcium (may calm your muscles and nerves, helping you sleep.)

Go to bed and get up the same time daily. Keep your room dark and quiet and remove distractions. no working in bed). Have a cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile, to relax your body. Try eating a healthy diet of whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and low-fat protein to feel better and sleep better.

Lying in bed, starting from your legs and moving up to your head, tense your muscles one at a time, then release. Your body will feel more relaxed, like a rubber band after it's been stretched. And try soothing alternate-nostril breathing. Exhale through one nostril, using your fingers to close the opposite nostril. Breathe in and out; then switch back and forth.

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