Struggling with sleep can be a maddening experience. It often feels like a cycle that feeds on itself. If you're in that camp, you've probably already tried some different approaches to regain your rest. But if you're still looking for inspiration, fear not: there are many, many things that can help your sleep if you're willing to experiment. We have scoured through the internet to find you 5 completely Out-Of-The-Box treatments for insomnia. Scroll down to get some new ideas to help you find a perfect night's rest.
1. Nix the Blue Light
The tiny electronic devices we all love could be throwing your sleep schedule out of whack. The reason is because computers, TV's, and smart devices emit something called "blue light." Exposure to blue light convinces our mind that it is daytime, and it can actually disrupt our circadian rhythms by suppressing the release of the sleep-inducing hormone melatonin. The more electronic devices that a person uses in the evening, the harder it is to fall asleep or stay asleep. So, try to stop using your electronic devices about 1 hour prior to sleep. If you use a computer at night, try downloading a free program called Flux. Flux slowly removes blue light from your screen as the sun goes down and can help your mind and body adjust to a natural sleep cycle.
2. Go Camping
While we're on the subject of light—a 2013 study showed that 7 days of camping can actually reset your internal circadian clock. By getting away from artificial light and electronics, your mind and body can re-calibrate to the rising and setting of the sun and get on the same page. When it's night time, your brain will know it's time to rest which could lead to much better sleep! So get outside, and get rustic!
3. Live Your Life to its Fullest
What do we mean by that? Having a good time has a direct impact on your sleep. That's why insomnia can often be linked to mood imbalance and sadness or brain fog. When your serotonin levels are low, it can lead to an array of sleep issues. On the other hand, when your serotonin normalizes, you can find yourself resting again. It seems overly simplistic, but scheduling fun activities can go a long way in helping your insomnia. So make some time to get out of the house and schedule some fun activites or attend a concert or festival. Your sleep will thank you!
4. Acupuncture
Does your fear of not sleeping outweigh your fear of needles? Acupuncture may be perfect for you. First of all, let's clear something up: they're not needles, at least not like we tend to think. They're tiny--no thicker than a few hairs, and they're flimsier than a pine cone needle. The fear factor is far worse than the pain. If you can deal with that, then the benefits could be huge for treating your insomnia. As a chronic insomnia sufferer, the best night of sleep I've had in years came after my first acupuncture experience. If the idea entices you, check out a licensed acupuncturist near you.
5. Moxibustion
What is Moxibustion exactly? Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy used to help treat insomnia among other things. It consists of burning dried mugwort on particular points on the body. It plays an important role in the traditional medical systems of China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, and Mongolia. In many ways it works like acupressure. The heat from the herb acts as a powerful relaxant, and it can get you ready for a night of deep sleep. In order to get the most out of it, talk to a natural practitioner of TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) or acupuncturist. They can tell you the specific points to apply the moxa stick.
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