Stop Dreading Bedtime: 7 Ways to Fight Off Insomnia

It’s 2 a.m. and you can’t sleep. And you know that you’re going to suffer the consequences of a sleepless night during your day tomorrow. Ugh. For those of us that experience insomnia on a regular basis, bedtime may have become something to dread. So how do we get back the good feelings that should come with going to bed and getting the sleep that we want and need? These 7 tips to fight off insomnia will help you to love bedtime again and get a good night’s rest.

1. Stay Active During the Day

Make the most of your day by staying as active and busy as possible. Not only will this help you to get more done and feel more accomplished, it will also make it easier for you to look forward to relaxing and recharging when it’s time to turn in for the night.

2. Just Say No to Napping

No matter how tempting it might be to catch a couple of winks after you get home from being so productive, giving into temptation and taking an after-work nap can make falling asleep at night even harder. And while you’re at it, consistently keep yourself on your regular sleep schedule, even on the weekends, to help you from falling into the insomnia pit during your work week.

3. Make Your Bed a Sleep Haven

Make your bed a place where you can’t help but drift off to Dream Land by focusing on opulent comfort. Invest in a premium mattress, fluffy pillows, and a luscious comforter or blanket. Surrounding yourself with coziness will help you look forward to slipping into bed (and sleep!) at the end of the day.

4. Turn Bedtime into “Me Time”

Give yourself something to look forward to when it comes time to head to bed. This can be as simple as reading a book in your oh-so-comfortable sleep haven, listening to your favorite musical artist on your iPod, or imbibing in some deep breathing or meditation. Pamper yourself at bedtime!

5. Establish a Wind Down Routine

Just before bedtime, get yourself ready for sleep by establishing a set pre-bed routine. Turn down the lights and turn off the electronics. Drink some warm milk. Clear your mind and diminish worries by journaling about your day and what you have to look forward to tomorrow. No matter how you choose to unwind, make sure that it becomes a ritual for you to signal to yourself that it’s time for sleep.

6. Prep Your Body for Sleep

Now that you have your mind ready for bed, it’s time to make sure that your body is, as well. Get yourself a glass of water to keep next to the bed. Brush your teeth and wash your face. Let your hair down and slip into some comfy PJs. Signaling your body that it’s time for rest is key to getting better sleep!

7. Cut Out Disturbances

Say goodbye to anything that could possibly keep you awake at bedtime. Invest in some room-darkening curtains or a white noise machine. Ditch the TV and laptop. Remove any and every distraction that could keep you from getting to sleep.