Insomnia Suggestions

[Smokeahontas]

Hoping this is the best place for this...

A few times a year, for whatever reason, I go through periods, usually 2/3 weeks, where I get very little or no sleep. I don’t think there’s any trigger for it, it just happens. I try and get through it as best I can and have tried all the sleep hygiene suggestions...

• no screentime an hour before bed
• warm bath / shower
• no caffeine after 3pm
• Headspace app
• Reading an actual book rather than kindle / iPad
• Getting up and doing something if I don’t fall asleep within 30 mins

I’ve tried going to the gym for strenuous workouts and long, long walks in the evenings. Although I’m physically tired, my body just refuses to go to sleep. Does anyone have any suggestions on how you manage bouts like this?

A trick that works for me is counting my breaths. Either on the exhale or inhale. If my mind wanders I start again. It stops my mind going overdrive and I usually drift off.
If it doesn't work I try and relax as much as I can not stress about not sleeping. I find it's the stress that makes me more tired the next day

Have you tried any of the night time herbal teas? The ones that have lavender in them!

They work really well - not so great for getting to sleep but excellent for keeping you asleep!