Anyone else have insomnia? What do you do that helps at all?

[ang379]

I can't sleep!!! I'm trying to at least be productive and find some deals to post, did the dishes, but I am tired...I just can't fall asleep.

I've tried countless means of inducing a night's rest, but usually they don't work. TV, no TV, music, silence, reading, tea, several pretty gross herbal "remedies" that only made me sick to my stomach, pills - both prescription and OTC, I even tried warm milk once - ugh!!

Anyone tried something that works for them??

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[bradedit]

I pull out the ironing board and iron and find myself getting "Very" sleepy.

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Tami [Only registered and activated users can see links. Either login above or Register Now]

[ang379]

LOL!! I would try it but my ironing board is the dryer on fluff! That or just hang it in the bathroom while I'm in the shower.

I even tried filing my gargantuan "to be filed" box and that wasn't even mundane enough. I'm sure as soon as my son says "Mommy, let's play CandyLand for the 18th time" that the ability to sleep should kick in

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[The Bunny]

What usually helps me is to take a long, hot relaxing bath. I use my favorite bath beads and play some soft music. I light candles and maybe even bring in some light reading or a small glass of wine or after dinner drink. What REALLY helps is if I can talk my DH into giving me a scalp massage. He has done that on nights when I'm keeping him awake with my tossing and turning -- a few minutes getting my head rubbed and I'm out like a light and he can get some sleep, too!

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[barclay]

I ride my stationary bike and/or read.

[verwon]

I use Valerian Root, an all natural herb. According to my Doctor it doesn't have any contraindications with anything and it works fast. Within half an hour I am always snoring away.

It is a natural muscle relaxant. Also great for back and muscle pain.

[lectric]

I know that this is a family site so I will be careful.........Some quality time with my DH will put me right to sleep. He does not mind if I wake him up during the night.

[missmeow]

I know this will sound silly, but it really helps!

A big part of insomnia is thiking about what you should have done today / what you will do tomorrow. Ruminating. So I replace those thoughts with thoughts of my cat when she was a kitten. I remember her cute little tail and big blue eyes, how she would hide under bookshelves and jump out at me, and zzzzzz.....

This works like a charm for me. Also, make sure you don't have any caffeinated beverages late in the afternoon. Good luck!

[ang379]

Sometimes it is because I have too much on my mind and my brain just won't even pause - but last night it wasn't that.

Actually, quality time w/my dh wakes me up even more - go figure. Same with any exercise (walking, tae-bo).

I tried the bubble bath about 10 this morning - got clean but not tired.

Verwon, where do you get the Valerian Root? I think I'll try that. After 22 years of sleep problems (I was five when it started) this is one I haven't heard of - so I usually try almost anything - and this sounds promising.

I'm fortunate to have a best-friend who suffers through insomnia too, so at least I have company half the time

Thanks for all your responses! It appears that all your suggestions work well for you as most of the responses came at a normal hour, LOL

[Kaylap]

No remedies to suggest for insomnia (I have it too) but the middle of the night is the best time for Freeride points - if that's any consolation to you!

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Kayla (kaylap@ivillage.com)
"life is too short to be taken seriously." - Oscar Wilde

[ang379]

That's very true! That's when it can be of benefit - as well as doing FirstLook - site's always much fast in the middle of the night.

[Mamalubear]

I haven't had a sleep problem lately...other than I can't seem to get enough of it because I am busy. But I gotta tell ya, when I have insomnia, I head right for the computer and get some deals...or some points ...or ??? That way at least I have accomplished something!!!

[Rockabillie]

Really boring reading, some technical journal.
Nothing active, 'cause even if it's a boring activity, your body's moving.

[3tbear]

A doctor I used to have said that if I were to take an antihistimine right before bed, that it would help me to sleep. He suggested Benedryl. I find that if I read a book, or even a mail order catalog, it tires my eyes out and before I know it, I'm dozing off. I hope you get some sleep soon. I've had the same problem, but it's because of a nightlight I bought that really illuminates the room. I finally had to put it in the bathroom, too much light I would just wake up every hour.