Can't Sleep? The holistic way to beat Insomnia.

Can't Sleep? The holistic way to beat Insomnia.

It’s 2 a.m. and you’re seriously contemplating ordering a Total Gym, the infomercial is way too convincing. There are brownies in the fridge and you’re trying to resist. It’s early, you can’t sleep, and you’re not alone. Millions of people suffer from insomnia. So what can you do? Assuming there are no underlying causes like a sleep disorder, it’s probably a combination of stress, poor eating habits and a lack of exercise standing between you and your eight hours.

Focus on improving healthy habits during the day, and get to sleep at night!
A recent report suggests that moderate exercise can improve insomnia. Acute aerobic exercise during the day might reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality according to a recent study authored by Giselle S. Passos, of Federal University of Sao Paulo in Brazil.

Cut Caffeine
Caffeine intake can lead to difficulty sleeping. Limit coffee to one cup a day. And replace caffeinated soda with water, herbal tea or at the very least swap Mountain Dew for a caffeine free soda like Sprite.

Don’t eat a big meal right before bed.
Numerous studies suggest that eating a big meal can cause insomnia. Big meals should be consumed earlier in the day. Ideally, your smallest meal should be dinner.

Behavioral therapy vs. drugs?
We at Blue Zones are big believers in a holistic approach to health care. Before you fill that prescription, look at your habits and your environment. What can you change in your day to day life that might lead to a better nights sleep? Noisy neighbors? Buy earplugs. Not getting enough exercise? See if a daily bike ride, or jog improves your sleep patterns. Eating a big dinner? Cut your portions in half and see if this helps. While those sleep aids will work for the short term, insomnia is often a symptom of a larger lifestyle problem. Reducing stress, late night calories, and increasing physical activity may be the best long term solution.