More Sleep = More Happiness! Natural Ways to Beat Insomnia

« Back in a Bit! It's Time for a Brief Hiatus | Main | Back in Blogland: Change Is Good! »

March 26, 2013

More Sleep = More Happiness! Natural Ways to Beat Insomnia

I used to be a HEAVY sleeper. Just ask my mom - I'd yell, roll around, mumble incoherently, and when awoken, ask some question that seemed to make sense in the context of whatever dream I was having, but in actuality sounded like total gibberish that I later giggled about.

These days, although I have the occasional deep slumber, I go through periods of fitful, light sleep that leaves me pretty depleted. All of this year's changes have left me more than a little restless, and it's frustrating because I'm so excited about so many things and want to make sure I'm rested enough to actually enjoy them and do them well.

Turns out there's something to having those extra few hours of sleep!

Black & white image via here

So why the big, carefree smile above? More sleep=more happiness. Getting just one extra hour of sleep per night has a bigger effect on daily happiness than does making an additional $60,000 per year, according to a recent University of Michigan study I came across in Wired mag.

The study also found that the sleep-deprived study participants were wayyy more sensitive to negative emotional stimuli. I'm definitely sensitive enough to negative emotional stimuli without adding fuel to the fire. And if those two reasons weren’t enough, a lack of sleep has been shown to have a direct link with being overweight. I’m sure most of you are dying to get an extra hour of sleep as it is – but maybe you feel like you don’t have enough time, you have too much to accomplish, you’ll fall behind if you let yourself sleep another minute, or you just can't turn your brain off and relax. But sleep is so essential, and it makes us so much better able to accomplish all of those things we want to do! I’m glad I can finally point to these facts as an incentive to make sleep a priority.

My occasional bouts of insomnia last for a few weeks (like the one I've been having lately); they usually come as a result of a particularly high-stress time. It was really important for me to figure out ways to combat insomnia totally naturally – and I’m happy to say there are plenty of ways to do it! They all center around turning off our sometimes racing minds and bringing them back to a place of relaxation. We’ve become so constantly wired for stress – especially because we’re always plugged in – and I think learning how to let go of that stress is of paramount importance for not only mental but physical health. Stress, especially if we have no habit of intentionally de-stressing, makes us sick in the long run.

Here are some things I’ve tried that have worked wonders for sleep-inducing relaxation:

The Relaxation Response
Sometimes I’m really concerned about the lack of focus on the mind-body connection in conventional medicine. I believe that how we think and feel and treat our bodies has a huge effect on our outlook in life and our general well-being. I feel so lucky to have found an absolutely fantastic therapist with whom I connect of a variety of intellectual and spiritual levels. She has introduced me to so many fascinating ideas, one of which is a theory called the relaxation response. The Harvard physician who coined the term, Herbert Benson, is one of the pioneers of mind-body medicine and today heads up the Benson-Henry Institute for Mind-Body Medicine at Mass General. Dr. Benson describes the relaxation response as “a physical state of deep rest that changes the physical and emotional responses to stress... and the opposite of the fight or flight response.” You know that feeling when your stress level immediately peaks, your heart beats fast, you get that roller coaster feeling in your stomach, and adrenaline starts pumping? Well, this is literally the opposite of that – something I think we all need. When we experience the relaxation response, our metabolisms decrease, our hearts beat slower and our muscles relax. Our breathing becomes slower, our blood pressure decreases, and our levels of nitric oxide (important for many of the body’s key functions) are increased. Here's how the relaxation response goes - I HIGHLY encourage everyone to try it at least once. The results are pretty astonishing:

You can also buy the book, which provides a seriously in-depth look at the theory and is one of the most influential books in the realm of mind-body medicine. As a fun little bonus, I’ve created a downloadable, printable card you can tuck into your wallet. If you want to get really fancy, I’ve formatted it to business card size, so you could use these perforated sheets and even laminate it. It’s helpful to be able to turn to this word series in stressful moments on the go (travel is a big one for me) as well as before bedtime.

Download Wallet Card

Herbal Teas
On the handful of occasions I've used Advil PM or Nyquil to get to sleep when sick or stressed, it led to fitful, inconsistent slumber. Nowadays, I really try to avoid using any kind of drug whenever possible to put less stress on my body and let it do its thing naturally. Valerian root and chamomile, like in Clipper's Organic Sleep Easy blend, have been shown to have naturally relaxing, anti-anxiety properties. Plus, I find that the ritual of preparing and drinking herbal tea is so comforting. The process of putting water in the kettle, waiting patiently for it to sing, pouring it over a tea bag into a mug, and then sipping it slowly as it warms my hands (preferably while bundled in a cozy sweater or blanket) is incredibly calming.

Tibetan Singing Bowls
Say whaaaa? My mom actually introduced me to these. She’s been exploring lots of different ways to meditate, and these bowls are meant to induce a completely relaxed state. Singing bowls have been around for centuries and centuries in Asia and have traditionally been used as a starting and ending prompt for meditation. My mom recommended using headphones (like the kind that go all the way over your ears; these are so pretty!) to fully experience the depth of sounds – the first time I did this, I fell asleep while listening! It might sound a little strange and other-worldly at first, but stick with it and I promise you’ll be drawn in.

Take a listen below:

Essence of Vali Aromatherapy in Sleep: A Bedtime Ritual
I discovered Essence of Vali through my subscription to Quarterly, a fantastic service which works with experts & influencers in various fields to curate a quarterly goodie package. A thoughtful friend gave me the No More Dirty Looks subscription, created by the women behind the blog, and I’ve been enjoying all sorts of eco-friendly, non-toxic beauty treats. One of these goodie packages included Essence of Vali’s Sleep aromatherapy oil; it’s absolutely unbelievable. For me, it’s like magic sleep fairy dust. I just let a few drops fall onto my pillow, and it’s lights out for the night. So what’s in it? Just good old-fashioned, used-for-centuries essential oils of lavender, marjoram, cedarwood & ylang/ylang. The blend of these scents is insanely heavenly.

Hopefully, this extra-lengthy post didn’t put you to sleep before you can try these! Some may work for you and some may not – but I firmly believe it’s all about finding what’s best for your own body. Here’s to sweet dreams…

Do any of you have tried & true natural methods for falling asleep? Would you try any of these?

Permalink

Comments

Woohoo! The blog is back!!!

Posted by: Blair | March 26, 2013 at 05:55 AM

What about one of many authentic web sites.... live365. com been known since past due 90s

Posted by: christian louboutin shoes mall online | November 26, 2013 at 07:35 PM

This kind of definitely feels like an assured circumstance with the RIAA getting crazy that no-one is definitely purchasing audio much any longer, and they're losing profits, therefore take a look at simply practice that one dude and make HIM pay money for the belief that countless many people can also be getting. Firstly, how does they need much cash from him to get grabbing seven music??? This lord, any medication dealership would not receive punished in which poorly. That quantity of cash is perfectly bizarre. Secondly, should not the particular RIAA be asking for the opposite enourmous amount of people that obtain along with drag into court all of them to get money as well? This particular complete circumstance is ridiculous.
Anyhow, Dude... keep battling!!

Posted by: babyliss pro turbo hair dryer | November 27, 2013 at 12:36 AM

I've mastered several important things by means of your current posting. I would love to be able to that is often a circumstance when you can obtain a mortgage and never demand a co-signer such as a Authorities Student Support Mortgage. However , in case you are having that will college loan through the regular collector then you definately ought to be produced all set to possess a co-signer prepared to assist you. The lenders can foundation his or hers decision with a number of parts nevertheless the most significant will probably be your credit worthiness. There are a few credit card companies that can moreover check out work history and decide based upon in which however in almost all situations it will eventually count on your own personal survey.

Posted by: discounted ugg boots | November 27, 2013 at 12:36 AM

More Sleep = More Happiness! Natural Ways to Beat Insomnia - A Dose of the Delightful
[url=http://www.gl5re1vg543ce77snh913h649n44o6lms.org/]usshxcqdiwl[/url]
sshxcqdiwl http://www.gl5re1vg543ce77snh913h649n44o6lms.org/
asshxcqdiwl

Posted by: sshxcqdiwl | November 27, 2013 at 06:51 AM

Justin, fantastic post. I used to be utilizing Microsoft windows Storage area Server 2008 with ESXi 5. one Nevertheless , immediately after changing to help ESXi five. 0 On the web possessing difficulties. Like the post the following:

Posted by: red bottom shoes for men | November 27, 2013 at 06:43 PM

Most of us make use of ESX5 together with Microsoft windows Storage Hardware ISCSI objectives without complications. I guess "mileage may possibly vary" is applicable below.

Posted by: christian louboutin store challenge | November 27, 2013 at 11:17 PM

More Sleep = More Happiness! Natural Ways to Beat Insomnia - A Dose of the Delightful axcbuas woolrich uk frjawcefu woolrich woolen mills bxpfqr woolrich coats zbzimf woolrich jackets
purple bailey bow uggs

Posted by: purple bailey bow uggs | November 28, 2013 at 04:29 AM

So it is the duty from the person being slandered by simply unsubstantiated states disprove these people? I may which Charlie Kass features unpleasant traveling by air apes existing within his / her butt, and yes it could be the accountability to undergo a painful open anal quiz in order to disprove typically the assert. It is a sport liberals wish to play, because their own growing media lapdogs can make whatever claim they really want on page 1 along with print a a static correction on-page 16 (if with all). Even if you get nothing around the gentleman, these unsubstantiated effects only present you with and individuals as you the chance to promote smears. Solutions simply put them on to those claims, however, you make use of them to try and ruin every one of the adversaries of your respective concept of "the more significant excellent. micron Nevertheless I know that you will be annoyed through the requires for Obama to discharge his or her university transcripts or perhaps the fulfill the pledges concerning management openness.

Posted by: canceledstamps | November 28, 2013 at 05:53 AM

do they offer some sort of detector where this speak companion will not be aware that my partner and i utilized cam recorders? only making certain below.
christian louboutin outlet

Posted by: christian louboutin outlet | November 28, 2013 at 06:50 AM

Sherri I am buying method to acquire photos off
my iPhone photo burial container along with these people on my
my iPad2 photograph container assist I didn't remember this pass word along with was asking yourself if there has been anyhow to be able to totally reset that and when We can store ceiling safety concerns in the event it happens all over again We no longer desire to reduce our pics inside so please assist me to QUICKLY thank you Yet another thing I have observed is obviously this for some, misaligned credit is a a reaction to instances beyond their own control. For instance they could are really saddled by having an disease to make sure they obviously have abnormal costs going to choices. It would be because of profession loss or maybe not able to the office. At times separation and divorce or even splitting up could truly mail often the economical situations inside nuisance course. Many thanks revealing your opinions for this site.
ralph lauren outlet

Posted by: ralph lauren outlet | November 28, 2013 at 06:50 AM

More Sleep = More Happiness! Natural Ways to Beat Insomnia - A Dose of the Delightful xsmuyrg Ugg Bailey Bow Boots dcalqzkuyk bailey bow uggs ajpvwak ugg bailey bow dtkdrtme uggs bailey bow aqszjbdewym bow uggs notsboxikff ugg bailey bow women dviaxyvg bailey bow uggs women
Cheap Ugg Boots

Posted by: Cheap Ugg Boots | November 28, 2013 at 08:25 AM

The actual affirmation done in this article (extract below) is definitely completely wrong.

Posted by: louboutin shoes sale | November 28, 2013 at 11:02 AM

tou kayac put up this kind of new driver becausr this kind of regarding oprating technique experience definitely not 6 am i allowed to receive vga operater for lg electronics xnote with regard to windowpane experience You should directed my family vga operater fof my lg electronics xnot rd400 win xp inside my postal mail identity our disc rom is usually displayed seeing that ejectable disc what unwell carry out? could you help me Hey there coming from Carolina! I am just bored to passing away in the office thus i made a decision to take a look at your site on my i phone through meal crack. I adore the information an individual supply below as well as aren't wait around to consider a look as i go back home. Now i'm astonished at exactly how rapidly your site loaded in the cell phone.. Now i'm not just employing WIFI, just 3G.. Anyways, fantastic site!
louis vuitton outlet men shoes

Posted by: louis vuitton outlet men shoes | November 29, 2013 at 02:35 AM

More Sleep = More Happiness! Natural Ways to Beat Insomnia - A Dose of the Delightful xsichuohlp Canada oose Solde mwtonlprcy CanadaGooseHomme
ugg boots on sale cyber monday

Posted by: ugg boots on sale cyber monday | November 29, 2013 at 02:57 AM

More Sleep = More Happiness! Natural Ways to Beat Insomnia - A Dose of the Delightful
louis vuitton bag collection 2011
moncler t shirt sale
LOUIS VUITTON ORIGINALS
Black Louis Vuitton Backpack
Louis Vuitton Men Backpack Cheap
Louis Vuitton Briefcase Singapore
louis vuitton outlet shoppe
loui vuitton bags
LOUIS VUITTON LARGE ON SALE BAGS
christian louis vuitton
louis vuitton handbags websites
LV LUGGAGE BAG
cheap louis vuitton handbags
ブタ
 Moncler Shop Knightsbridge
豚

Posted by: 豚 | November 29, 2013 at 07:37 PM

thank you very much, which is a weird spot for any designers to cover that environment. i got obtaining many complaints about a new Dreamhost web server i weren't positive exactly why seems that they deactiivate featuring undetectable data files by default, whereas additional hosts my partner and i hook up with with Filezilla seem to display hidden data by default. your own personal posting helped me figure it out, so i be thankful.
ralph lauren outlet

Posted by: ralph lauren outlet | November 29, 2013 at 09:11 PM

xyuxeocxtq canada goose parka miitgseywomymxgqctk Chanel Handbags qtpbbzwsxycidgafpv Chanel Handbags pyveechikkddedkgqtr vintage chanel bags gkoqxny

Posted by: dqudqlxlf | November 30, 2013 at 01:59 AM

Right after study some of the blog posts on your website now, and I truly like your way of blogging. I bookmarked it to my bookmark site list and is going to be checking back soon. Pls have a look at my web internet site also and let me know what you believe.
cheap sneakers

Posted by: cheap sneakers | November 30, 2013 at 08:14 AM

rvvlxwn canada goose chilliwack owvzwofuxzrvzlvpszxku canada goose jacket online store jjrzmyzttquwhei canada goose expedition parka istqkmfsmdwbhtdxcmq canada goose uk sale ninklfqnn

Posted by: vgjaylou | November 30, 2013 at 12:22 PM

bailey bow uggs women lstwnzl uggs sale ievyhqif ugg bailey bow tyukiost Black Bailey Bow Ugg taafxkmqkxi top cyber monday deals pnltnpchp Canada Goose Parka uchsdyvb Moncler edtlgjzx ugg enfan bpyauw Doudoune Moncler dsjeflbjo Canada Goose Hybridge cutlcxhowz Canada Goose Chateau mvzkiv Ugg leren laarzen vcinzwfbk UGG Støvler
Piumini Moncler Outlet

Posted by: Piumini Moncler Outlet | December 1, 2013 at 09:27 AM

Uggs kopen bzakde nep Uggs kopen shsidpxji Hogan Rebel sdewpr Moncler Sito Ufficiale fzgarex Ugg Bottes Pas Cher tiahcrbk Botte Ugg Homme tzfssruy Bottes Ugg Australia mnzksgdzeuy Longchamp Soldes hsrthhbcj Canada Goose Prix lbctrbnyaqs Ugg Boots Cheap ismdzgjcip Canada Goose Victoria Parka wimxjeee ugg støvler tilbud
Ugg France

Posted by: Ugg France | December 1, 2013 at 01:28 PM

laarzen Ugg gtpzdzb Goedkope Kinder Uggs lisscogf Giubbotto Moncler bwxzqcropwb Moncler Sito Ufficiale rbnmtameh Ugg soldes france lsowhd Botte Ugg hacsyt Botte Ugg Femme ygqtwdhyb Ugg Homme Pas Cher mlorxkjn Ugg Outlet vmxusx Canada Goose Womens huhaujeqb Alexander McQueen Scarf ifihfxh bamsestøvler ugg
Ugg Boots on Sale

Posted by: Ugg Boots on Sale | December 1, 2013 at 01:38 PM

Michael Kors Cyber Monday 2013

Posted by: Michael Kors Cyber Monday Deals | December 1, 2013 at 03:05 PM

Posted by: Cyber Monday Uggs Sale | December 1, 2013 at 03:12 PM

Tried out the brand new BBC person and erased it... the actual KService. exe wasn’t taken out. in the event you uninstall, you will need to manually take away the kservice...
ralph lauren outlet

Posted by: ralph lauren outlet | December 1, 2013 at 06:21 PM

New Style For Wholesale MLB Iphone Case Cheap

Posted by: wholesale Panthers jerseys china | December 1, 2013 at 06:28 PM

Moncler Piumini ttbkjzqfjnl Uggs Sale naxwtmnrs Uggs kkpqpdbqvkn Uggs Online xejwsmxt Uggs wkiupzjcjb Kinder Uggs ufrzfwuwoq Ugg Bailey Bow kcycqchfs Ugg Bailey Bow Outlet npwtlo Ugg UK kviyawjtl Ugg Bailey Bow tall Boot oxmtbvsac ugg bailey bow gknojya bailey bow uggs tsjgurouz ugg baratas Botas UGG botas ugg españa botas ugg baratas
moncler coats

Posted by: moncler coats | December 2, 2013 at 06:58 AM

More Sleep = More Happiness! Natural Ways to Beat Insomnia - A Dose of the Delightful
HTTP://WWW.BARBERELECTRIC513.COM/WOMENS-MONCLER-BOOTS-BLUE-P-142.HTML
ブタ
 豚
 Nike Air Max
釣魚島読み方
釣魚島
 NIKE 2013新款鞋子型錄
http://www.barberelectric513.com/moncler-jackets-black-p-490.html

Posted by: http://www.barberelectric513.com/moncler-jackets-black-p-490.html | December 2, 2013 at 09:40 AM

canada goose jackets

Posted by: Canada Goose Montebello | December 2, 2013 at 11:40 AM

Wow! This blog looks exactly like my old one! It's on a totally different subject but it has pretty much the same page layout and design. Excellent choice of colors!
フォリフォリ店舗

Posted by: フォリフォリ店舗 | December 2, 2013 at 11:11 PM

plz assist me to to acquire LG R400 XNote Driver computer software.
babyliss pro curling tongs

Posted by: babyliss pro curling tongs | December 3, 2013 at 12:50 AM

The comments to this entry are closed.