Ways to Fall Asleep and Have a Good Night's Rest

My Guide to Falling Asleep

The way I approach sleep is comfort. If you are in a comfortable zone, you are less likely to be worrying about things which increases your brain activity, blood flow, and heart rate.

So, the first step in my squidoo that I like to indroduce you to is do is alter your surroundings. Ask yourself, Is my bed sleep conducive. Is it too soft that my muscles are buried in it and leave me cramped and folded? Is it too hard and won't allow me to get comfortable? Only you can tell, and it is a good idea to try out different mattresses. I suggest the new foam mattresses that conform to your body- it usually meets that in between hard and soft area. Soft, warm comforters and pillows work well. Try to find softer textures and high silky thread counts. The tactility plays a factor in your comfort level.

Next, I suggest adding to your environment with ambience. If you surround all your 5 senses you are bound to win this battle with sleep. Soft lighting is always good. Try dim lights or lighting some candles -but if you do light candles remember to put them out or only light them if you know someone else is awake in the room and will fall asleep after you do to prevent fire.

Next sense is smell. Aroma therapy has done wonders for me. You can find some good relaxation scents at Bath and Body. They often come in oils, lotions, and candles.

Taste is important as well. Before going to sleep I highly reccomend Egyptian Chamomile. It relaxes your body and the warmth of the tea is an added sleep aid.

Hearing is next. I reccomend soothing sounds. Some stores sell white noise generators for babies and adults. White noise has a soothing effect that is similar to being in the womb. There are also hypnotic cds and ambient music. I reccomend these ambient noises: the ocean, reiki bowl music, and gregorian chant.

Try to imagine yourself in a setting like this. Nice huh?

If that doesn't help you fall asleep then there are tons of sleeping pills out on the market. I usually find the regular over the counter diphenhydramine works well if combined with other soothing techniques.

One thing to note: try to mix up your routine. If you are not being affected by these relaxation techniques perhaps you have grown accustomed to them. Try to alternate and come up with new rituals to heighten your relaxation senses. Mix it up with a hot bubble bath, a nice massage either with a loved one or with an electric massage chair. They have electric foot spaces that are really nice as well.

I hope I my squidoo page has helped you find new ways to fall asleep and relax. Tell the sheep to go away you are done counting.