Thread: Dealing with insonmia?

As many people have already suggested, start with good sleep hygiene techniques before you go for anything crazy. The small things can make a huge difference. Stay away from bright light for an hour before bed (including television and computer monitors). Use the bedroom only for sleep, so your body instinctively knows it is time to sleep when you are in bed. Try to keep a consistent sleep schedule. Go to bed and wake at the same time every day (as much as possible).

You can try some easy relaxation techniques while you are getting ready for bed. You don't have to do any long meditations. Just do some calming mental excercises while brushing your teeth, or whatever your nightly routine is.

When all else fails, and I get stuck awake with a racing mind in the middle of the night, I use reverse blinking. I just close my eyes, breathe normally, and start to slowly count every breath as I exhale. At each exhale, I say the number to myself, then quickly blink my eyes open and closed again. Just like blinking, only in reverse. I don't focus on anything, and it works even if the room is completely dark. I like this method because it does not rely on any sort of visualization. Taxing your mind with a complicated visualization or relaxation method is the last thing you want to do when your mind is already racing. You can also use this during the day to relax yourself, or as a part of a WILD meditation.

I posted a new entry on my blog which has some tips on better sleep, control, and recall. You may have already come across most, but it might be useful to check.

http://www.sliceofloaf.co.cc/2010/02...-dreamers.html

My fiancé has suffered from insomnia and is now drinking herbal tea which seems to help somewhat. He still wakens too early but it at least is giving him some rest. Do check with your doctor about anything you add to your regimen, whether prescription or not. There can be so many interactions you do not want to take any chances..