Sleepless in the night...

Over the last 2 weeks I have been approached several times about concerns with insomnia, either their not going to sleep or not staying asleep. Medical doctors all over the country would be salivating over this conversation. Most MD's would prescribe Ambien or Lunesta, there is a host of other sleeping pills available. Why would we want to suffer from aggressiveness, strange or unusually outgoing behavior, hallucinations (seeing things or hearing voices that do not exist), feeling as if you are outside of your body, memory problems, difficulty concentrating, slowed speech or movements, new or worsening depression, thinking about killing yourself, confusion, and any other changes in your usual thoughts, mood, or behavior? Well these are some of the symptoms that are associated with these medications.
There are several things that we over look before we schedule appointments with our physicians. Don't get me wrong I visit the Doctors office, I just go after I have evaluated all things that could have possibly caused my issue and exhausted all options that may resolve my issue naturally. Sleep is one thing that may be resolved easy enough by follow the check list below.

1.  Close blinds/curtains to bed room
2. No television or computer at least an hour before bed.
3. No exercising an hour before bed.

Simple enough right?  If you have your curtains opened and the street lights are shining in the room that would create a bit of a distraction. Your room should be dark to create the sleep cycle. The blue light in the television and computer stimulates the release of melatonin when they are on, which is the same effect the sun light has on the human body. Melatonin is your awake hormone, so if your attempting to sleep you should trigger the opposite effect. You shouldn't have any stimulation before bed. There shouldn't be any activities like intense workouts to be exact, this will encourage adrenaline. There are many things you can try to ensure that you can unwind and have a good nights sleep. Fore instance, deep breathing and stretching with no music or television going for 10 to 15 minutes,drink a glass of water or warm milk (Yes, I will always say drink water) and make sure all lights are out in your bed room when going to sleep.

Just checking off a few simple things may change your life dramatically. After exhausting all options then you should go to the MD. In no way am I saying never go to your MD, I'm just saying educate yourself and learn about your body. Again, I will remind you, The body places you on a reward system, you treat it right, it will treat you right. If you're having difficulty sleeping don't take it lightly, sleep deprivation is a serious thing. Evaluate your diet, life style as far as activities or the lack there of, choice of beverages. Do you drink a lot of caffeine? Simple things can cause such a annoying issue. Be wise about your life style and habits. Were told daily almost everything is generational, of course if we keep teaching the same habits generation after generation. let's break the cycle. Also remember sleep deprivation can also be a sign of some health issues if you 're encountering health issues and insomnia is a symptom please consult your physician, I encourage it, I don't want you to think I'm against it.

God Bless and I look forward to our next chat. If you have any questions email me info@massageprofessionalsofillinois.com