Natural Treatment for Insomnia

Treatment for insomnia?
(10 Aug 2009)

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Insomnia can be a very serious problem particularly if the condition is neglected or not treated appropriately as it can lead to a host of other problems. Insomnia is a sleep disorder in which the individual is unable to relax and rejuvenate because of an inability to fall asleep or stay asleep. It is possibly the most common of all sleep disorders and one that we all know of, even if we have not experienced it.

Even on occasions when you do get sleep, you wake up feeling unrefreshed. There is absolutely no scope for relaxation and rest and this takes a toll on your ability to carry out routine tasks and day to day activities. It not only affects your work, but also your moods, emotions, relationships, health and quality of life.

The required amounts of sleep may vary from person to person, but on an average most adults require at least seven to eight hours of sleep. In severe cases of insomnia medical treatment may be necessary, but in milder cases or if recognized and addressed promptly natural methods of treatment at home can work just as well. To effectively combat the problem however you need to make changes to your lifestyle itself, without which no medical or natural treatment can have a lasting effect.

Insomnia may at times be caused due to another medical condition or because of certain prescription medications, but it is most commonly caused due to stress, anxiety, and depression, all stemming from a fast paced lifestyle or emotional and relationship problems. Substance abuse, including over consumption of caffeine, nicotine and alcohol can also contribute to the problem. At times a change in your environment or work schedule can also throw your natural rhythm or body clock out of synch and cause insomnia. Irregular sleep patterns and poor sleeping conditions can also contribute to the problem. Digestive problems or eating to close to bed time can also add to the problem and in some cases it may even be psychological with worries about insomnia and a lack of sleep actually keeping you awake.

Here are some lifestyle changes that you need to focus on:

Follow a strict disciplined sleep schedule.

Only sleep enough to feel rested and do not continue to lie in bed if awake.

Avoid trying hard to sleep, instead read a book or watch television. You will most likely drift of to sleep.

Never try to go to bed when tense and unrelaxed. Always make it a point to relax for an hour or two before going to bed. Soft music and a soak in a warm tub with some essential oils added may be all it takes to get you relaxed. Try and clear your mind of all worries and focus on enjoying the present.

Make sure your bedroom and bed is extremely comfortable.

Restrict your intake of caffeine, alcohol and nicotine.

Eat your last meal at least two hours before sleep time and try to have lighter meals.

Some light exercise and physical activity during the day will also help you sleep better at night.

In addition to these changes in your lifestyle there are also several aromatherapy treatments and herbal remedies that have been found to be very effective for treating insomnia.

answered by S D on 10 Aug 2009, 3:58:55

Natural Treatment for Insomnia

Treatment for insomnia? (10 Aug 2009)

Treatment for insomnia?
(10 Aug 2009)