Help getting to sleep

**superchaz** · 10-23-2011 02:09 AM

Lately I've been having trouble getting to sleep.

I was wondering if anyone had any tips for just nodding off. I usually lie on my side or back if that helps.

All input is appreciated.

**Puffin** · 10-23-2011 02:16 AM

I moved this to the Sleep and Health subforum.

You basically don't want to do anything that will put back your body's natural sleeping clock. Don't look at bright screens a good half hour or so before bed, because the light confuses your body, telling it "this is the sun which means it's still the daytime, wake up". And don't eat a large meal or lots of snacks before bed; a full stomach is pretty bad for sleep because your body is digesting - this could keep you awake, and it's also not the healthiest thing either. No grain products, energy drinks (but that's probably a given), or caffeinated things like chocolate.

Also, try exercising at least a few hours before you go to bed. The more tired you are, the easier it will be to sleep.

Sleeping position shouldn't necessarily be a problem unless you're uncomfortable with being on your back or side.

One final tip - if you've tried Jeff's Free-Falling WILD technique and accidentally fallen asleep from it... try putting that to your advantage. If you haven't read it, I highly recommend doing so because it explains a quick way to fall unconscious/asleep.

**superchaz** · 10-23-2011 02:35 AM

thanks puffin

**Puffin** · 10-23-2011 05:23 AM

No problem; if you have any questions about what I've posted (or anything else) don't hesitate to ask.

**Naiya** · 10-23-2011 06:42 AM

To add to what Puffin said, I have a lot of trouble falling asleep as well. I've found that meditating before bed can help a lot because it can help me relax. It also helps me put aside all the crazy annoying thoughts about what I have to do the next day. (It also helps me MILD.)

White noise can also be a huge help if you're a light sleeper. If you can't buy a white noise machine, a fan is a good backup.