Tips for falling asleep

[whatausername]

Any tips for helping get to sleep? Especially if it's a bit earlier than usual for a very early start. For an adult, not a child, if that makes a difference.

High strength magnesium or some of the regular Piriton, not the non drowsy type, but silly to buy it for a one off when you would feel the benefit of magnesium every night.

ASMR sends me to sleep in minutes 😴

I really like Tansy Forrest hypnosis on YouTube. I was freaked out by the idea of hypnosis at first but actually it just seems to mean guided meditation. She has a very calming British voice and there are a few different ones to choose from. Makes me feel less lonely when I can't sleep as well.

I listen to the Sleeping Forecast on BBC Sounds

Semi interesting but not super interesting non fiction audiobook read by a soothing narrator. I put my audible on sleep mode and it usually take <15 mins for me to get to sleep.

A really obscure episode if In Our Time (R4)

Podcast or audio book with a soothing narrator and no background noise / sounds effects / music. Maybe something a bit interesting but not exciting (I like History Extra podcasts).

They give my brain something to focus on instead of spiralling, but not so engaging that I stay awake to listen if my head and body are tired.

Both DH and DS find colouring or drawing is helpful.

Calm App.

I like the Sleeping Forecast too. Breathe deeply and try to clear your mind of busy thoughts.

Gardeners question time. Then if that doesn't work, think of an animal/vegetable/country/fruit etc starting with every letter of the alphabet in turn. Stops errant thoughts keeping you up.

I put on YouTube mediation and slowly count to 100.

On YouTube I listen to Erik Braa reading The Nordland Night Train or Stephen Fry reading Blue Gold. I've been doing this for a few years and have never succeeded in reaching the end of either story!